Lawyer, cop in shouting match

CROSS-TALK between the policeman who laid charges against the three accused in the Dr Chandra Naraynsingh Murder Inquiry and a defence attorney heated up the courtroom in yesterday’s hearing of the matter before Deputy Chief Magistrate Mark Wellington. The exchange between Assistant Supt of Police (Homicide) Nadir Khan and defence attorney Prakash Ramadhar erupted in the San Fernando First Magistrates’ Court while Ramadhar was cross-examining Khan.

Khan laid the charges last December against Prof Vijay Naraynsingh, Seeromani Ma-haraj and businessman Elton Ramasir. Khan, the  State’s 26th witness to testify in the murder inquiry, was one of five witnesses called to testify yesterday by Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Roger Gaspard. The exchange between ASP Khan and Ramadhar erupted when the defence attorney shouted to the police witness: “Be quiet.” This drew a protest from Khan who told Ramadhar: “Excuse me, sir. You cannot bawl at me like that. You cannot shout at me.” Khan sought to correct Ramadhar on a question regarding statements made to him (Khan) by Ramadhar concerning the identification parade of accused Maharaj.

After the attorney asked the question, Khan told Ramadhar: “You missed a word or two in the statement you just made.” Ramadhar continued cross-examination of Khan until 4 pm, when the magistrate ended the day’s hearing. Ramadhar indicated to the magistrate that he would be unavailable for part of today’s morning session, Wellington agreed for Ramadhar to defer further questioning of Khan. Evidence was taken from other State witnesses.

Dr Peter Sagar, the District Medical Officer who visited the scene where Chandra was gunned down at the Langmore Health Foundation, testified. Brenda Lively, a nursing assistant who worked at centre, also gave evidence. Acting Insp in the Homicide Division Johnny Abraham and Prison Officer Daniel Irish followed. Hearing will continue today at 10.15 am.