By KHRYSTAL RAWLINS

The State closed its case yesterday in the preliminary inquiry which is hearing charges of terrorism, sedition and incitement against Jamaat leader, Yasin Abu Bakr. Prosecution attorney Douglas Mendes SC told Chief Magistrate Sherman Mc Nicolls that a university professor who was supposed to testify on Islamic principles and practices, was not going to be called on again. Bakr is before the court charged with sedition, terrorism and three counts of inciting the demand of money and property and the breach of the peace. The offences are alleged to have taken place during Eid celebrations at the Jamaat’s Mosque in Mucurapo on November 4. The matter is being heard in the Port-of-Spain Eighth Magistrates’ Court.

Earlier this week, Mendes had indicated that the professor, who was busy with responsibilities at school, would testify at yesterday’s proceedings. However, following the announcement that the professor would not appear, attorney Pamela Elder SC, who is representing Bakr, asked that the matter be adjourned since she was not prepared to make submissions at yesterday’s proceedings. “We were really preparing to take the State’s final witness. We had prepared for cross-examination of the witness, not for submissions,” Elder said. However, Mc Nicolls, asked Elder if her request for an adjournment rested well with her client, who indicated his willingness to proceed with the matter. “My client entertains no doubt whatsoever of my commitment to him,” said Elder. Submissions will be made from both the prosecution and the defence on December 29 when hearing resumes.

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