THE trial of two men accused of the 2022 murder of 18-year-old Jude Christino is proceeding after the High Court in Demerara declined to accept their guilty pleas.

OJ Samuel Smith, known as “Red Boy,” and Wayne DaSilva, 22, called “Monkey Man,” are jointly charged in connection with the fatal stabbing at Kumaka Waterfront, Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini).

When the matter was called before Acting Chief Justice Navindra Singh, DaSilva indicated that he wished to plead guilty. However, as the court probed his decision, his responses became inconsistent and unclear.

He appeared uneasy, offering shifting accounts of what transpired, at one point suggesting involvement, while at another denying that he inflicted the fatal injuries. His inability to give a clear and unequivocal plea led the court to reject it.

Smith also addressed the court, providing an account that suggested he might have acted under instruction and fear. His version raised potential legal defences, including duress, which the court could not ignore.

In light of these circumstances, the court determined that the guilty pleas could not be properly accepted. Both men will now face trial.

The prosecution is being led by State Counsel Christopher Belfield and State Counsel Geneva Wills.

Police said Christino was seen arguing with two men before the confrontation escalated. As the teenager attempted to flee, both men pursued him and began assaulting him.

According to an eyewitness, one of the men then produced a knife and stabbed Christino in the neck, causing him to stumble and collapse.

Both assailants reportedly fled the scene, leaving him lying motionless.

Police were later summoned, and Christino was rushed to the Mabaruma Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Both accused were charged and remanded following their initial court appearance.

After conducting a preliminary inquiry, the magistrate found that there was sufficient evidence to establish a prima facie case against the men and ordered that they be committed to stand trial in the High Court.