By Janet A. Sesay
Accused, Staff Sergeant Abu Dauda has told military investigators that he consulted an herbalist to seek spiritual protection.
The accused’s statements was later retold in court by a witness, Bangura Osman Thompson, a military investigator attached Cockerill Defence headquarters during his testimony.
The witness was among an investigating team that obtained statements from the accused on 28th December, 2023 after the attempted coup.
According to Sergeant Bangura, on that day, he was on duty when ordered to investigate the accused which he did with police detectives.
Witness also told the court that the accused was cautioned and questioned by him in the presence of colleague investigators.
While reading the statements, witness said he was told by the accused that he contacted a herbalist to seek spiritual fortification for personal reasons and not for a coup.
The witness further told the court that the accused explained to them the process he went through.
Witness said the accused also said the herbalist workers gave him liquid substance which he apply to his body to fend off bullets.
Similar substance, witness went on, was also found in the attackers’ vehicle, and when the accused was asked about it, he said individuals within the military went in for traditional fortifications.
The witness further stated that the accused, in his statements, made to the investigators denied receiving three bags of coal containing weapons, and that 19 black rounds were discovered in his room claiming that he found them on his way after a training session.
Witness further explained that the court had no right to keep the ammunition but told the investigators that he forgot to hand them over.
He also said accused, in his statements, denied playing any part in the November 26 attacks as he fired only at the enemies.
After his testimony, Judge advocate, Mark Ngegba adjourned the matter to Wednesday 21ST February for continuation.