Cocorite man on kidnap, arms charges

Oboi Cummings — one of four men — allegedly involved in the abduction of two teenagers and a subsequent shootout with police on August 12, appeared before Magistrate Avason Quinlan at the city’s Fourth Magistrates’ Court to answer the charges.

The 24-year-old man of Waterhole in Cocorite is charged with kidnapping as well as shooting with intent, possession of arms and ammunition and possession of arms and ammunition to endanger life. Cummings was represented by attorney Cecil Pope who made an application for the matter to be heard in a summary trial at the Magistrates’ Court.

This request was refused by Quinlan who explained that the serious nature of the offences mandated first there will be a Preliminary Inquiry into the matter and if a prima facie case is proven, a trial at the next sitting of the Assizes.

Cummings was refused bail pending a “trace” by the police to see if he has an existing criminal record and/or convictions. He was subsequently remanded into custody and will reappear in court on August 28.