We are no longer calling witnesses - Darkey's Counsel

Christian Sheriff Asem Darkey, an alleged drug baron involved in the disappearance of the 76 parcels of cocaine on board the MV Benjamin vessel, on Tuesday, concluded his defence before an Accra Fast Track Court.

Darkey’s counsel, Mr Isaac Aidoo, said they were no longer calling witnesses to testify on their behalf. The court therefore gave counsel two weeks to secure court proceedings so that a date would be fixed for prosecution and defence to file their addresses.

The accused person has been charged with conspiracy, importation and exportation of narcotic drugs, following his arrest on February 2, 2012, after going into hiding in 2006.

He has pleaded not guilty to the charges and has since been on remand. Darkey was indicted for allegedly paying 3,000 dollars to a detective sergeant to facilitate his escape.

The prosecution’s case is that on April 26, 2006, a vessel, MV Benjamin, reportedly carrying about 76 parcels of cocaine docked at Kpone/Tema and discharged the drugs to a waiting vehicle.

The disappearance of the cocaine led to the constitution of the Georgina Wood Committee and the subsequent trial of persons alleged to have played various roles.