Accused sick, murder trial adjourned

THE TRIAL of murder accused Ramzan Asgarali and Kamal Pooran was prematurely adjourned yesterday after Pooran complained of illness. It was the second day of hearing that came to an abrupt end as Pooran doubled over in pain in the prisoner’s dock at the San Fernando High Court. Trial Judge Justice Herbert Volney ordered that Pooran, who complained of vomitting and stomach cramps, be taken to the San Fernando General Hospital for treatment. Pooran, 25, and Asgarali, 22, both of Rio Claro, are on trial for the murder of Rio Claro taxi driver Surujbally Mohan, 62. Mohan’s body was found in the Rio Claro forest on May 1, 1999. Asgarali and Pooran were arrested after Asgarali was seen driving Mohan’s taxi.

Last week, a statement  which Pooran gave to police upon his arrest was admitted into evidence. In the statement, Pooran said he and Asgarali were liming in Rio Claro when they hired Mohan’s taxi to go to Roble Grove Road. Pooran told police while there, Asgarali began strangling Mohan with a piece of rope. Pooran said he shouted to Asgarali to stop, but Asgarali threatened to set him up for the murder. The accused are represented by attorneys Chaitram Sinanan, instructed by Brian Dabideen, and Rupert Frank and Stedson Jack. The prosecution’s case is being led by State attorney Althea Alexis. Hearing is expected to resume today.