Kidnap victim testifies against ‘Robo Cop’

SOUTH businessman and former kidnapping victim Saran Kissoondan spent most of yesterday testifying on the witness stand of the First San Fernando Magistrates’ Court, as the preliminary inquiry into his alleged kidnapping earlier this year, continued. Kissoondan, who is the virtual complainant in the matter, was the third witness to testify in the case. Earlier in the inquiry, two policemen testified. Selwyn ‘Robo Cop’ Alexis, Brian Cole, Kevin Simpson and Rooplal Harricharran stand accused of kidnapping Kissoondan on February 23.  The four accused men appeared before acting Deputy Chief Magistrate Mark Wellington. Some three weeks ago, a witness in the case, Kevin Richards, was discovered murdered in Central Trinidad. He was at the time, still giving  evidence.

The four also face a charge of wrongful imprisonment of Kisoondan. This charge is being heard at the Couva Magistrates’ Court. Attorney Gillian Lucky has been granted a fiat by the Director of Public Prosecutions to appear on behalf of the State in the matter. Alexis and Cole are being represented by attorney Keith Beckles. Kissoondan faced questions from attorney Lucky, as he gave his account of the incident. However Beckles objected to some of the questions, saying they prejudiced the other matter, in which the four accused men are before the Couva Magistrates’ Court. Beckles also questioned the admissibility of such evidence. However Lucky contended, “there is no prejudice that would take place in any other matter, I gave the court that assurance.”  Beckles countered by saying that some of the evidence given by Kissoondan, was “related to another case.” Alexis’ mother and other relatives were present in court yesterday. Kissoondan’s relatives are expected to take the witness stand when next the matter is heard. As the matter was adjourned and Alexis was being led back to the holding cell, he wished attorney Lucky, “have a nice day” to which she responded, “you have a nice day too sir.”  The case continues on September 29.