State to call more witnesses in ‘JAY JAY’ BANDA’s escape case

By Christopher Miti

The state has indicated that it will call additional witnesses in former Petauke Central Member of Parliament EMMANUEL JAY BANDA’s escape case.

Deputy Chief State advocate RICHARD MASEMPHELA has told the Chipata Magistrates’ Court that the state will call three more witnesses, bringing the number of prosecution witnesses to eight.

But defence lawyer JOHN PHIRI from JMP Associates argued that it was unfair for the state to increase the number of witnesses when it initially indicated that it will call five witnesses.

Chipata Principal Resident Magistrate BONIFACE MWALA ruled that there was no problem for the state to call additional witnesses.

This is in the matter where three Correctional Service Officers, two Police Officers and the suspect’s wife are jointly appearing for allegedly aiding EMMANUEL JAY BANDA to escape from lawful custody.

Magistrate MWALA has since adjourned the case to February 24 and 25, 2025 for continued trial.