Firearms and prevention of terrorism case to resume in October |24 August 2023

Despite the adjournment of the firearms and prevention of terrorism case before the Supreme Court on Tuesday, accused Laura Valabhji is to appear in court this morning for the outcome of her bail application.

The trial was adjourned on Tuesday by Chief Justice Rony Govinden, as the defence team representing Mrs Valabhji and her husband Mukesh Valabhji on Monday stated that they require more time to study additional materials provided by the prosecution.

Lead attorney for the couple, James Lewis informed the court that he will be absent from the Seychelles after today’s bail proceedings due to other commitments, including a chief justice forum. 

Additionally, fifth accused in the matter, Frank Marie, a retired lieutenant colonel   in   the   Seychelles   Defence Forces and former chief security officer for former President France Albert René was unable to attend court, after being admitted to hospital due to health issues.

As such, presiding judge CJ Govinden set new dates for the trial. It is to resume on October 3 up until October 20, from October 31 to November 17 and December 4 up until December 18. The trial will also continue next year, from January 15 to January 24, 2024.

Asides from the Valabhjis and Mr Marie, the other co-accused are Leslie Benoiton, a lieutenant colonel in the SDF and son of France Albert René, as well as Leopold Payet, a retired brigadier of the SDF and ex-chief of defence.

Laura Pillay