Lamin Marena appeared before Justice Ebrima Jaiteh at the High Court in Banjul on Monday, April 14th,2025, facing a single count of rape stemming from an alleged incident involving a minor.
The charge, filed by State Counsel Sarr on behalf of the Attorney General, accuses Mr. Marena of violating Section 3(2)(d) of the Sexual Offences Act, 2013. Prosecutors allege that in 2023, in the town of Busumbala, Mr. Marena engaged in a sexual act with a 15-year-old girl.
Mr. Marena pleaded not guilty to the charge.
During the initial hearing, prosecutors requested an adjournment to allow time for the presentation of evidence. Justice Jaiteh granted the request, scheduling the next hearing for May 6. The accused has been remanded to Mile 2 Central Prison pending further proceedings.
Under the Sexual Offences Act, convictions for rape—particularly cases involving minors—carry severe penalties, reflecting the gravity with which Gambian law treats such offenses.