As the trial continues into Babita Sarjou’s murder, Police Inspector Suraj Singh attached to Major Crimes Unit, Criminal Investigations Department took the witness box on Thursday to give evidence against Sarjou’s ex-spouse, Sharnandand Naraine, called ‘Anand’ of Lot 51 Seaforth Street, Campbellville, Georgetown; and Darel Pronton called ‘Yankee’ of Lot 54 Broad Street, Charlestown.
Inspector Singh in his evidence reiterated that no inducement was offered for Pronton’s oral statements nor was he assaulted at any time in his presence. Singh disclosed that he never received any complaints of assault from Pronton, neither did he see his body bearing marks of violence, in fact , he stated that Pronton looked comfortable.
Singh continued that Pronton’s statement to the police was given voluntarily despite many cautions administered to him.
Prontons’ attorney Nigel Hughes in cross-examination of Singh contended that his client’s statement was not voluntary. Hughes suggested to Singh that his client give statements to the police on the premise that he will not be charged.
Naraine’s attorney, Peter Hugh was not present in court for the hearing.
The trail continued on Friday along with a Voir Dire (trial within a trial) to ascertain whether statements made by Pronton were willingly or involuntarily given. It will also determine if the statements can be admitted as evidence in the PI.
The case was reopened by Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum and his team of detectives who were able to crack the case on May 22, after they spent over five hours digging up a site at Naraine’s Seaforth Street, Campbellville, Georgetown, home where they believed Sarjou’s body was buried. They recovered skeletal remains, however they are still awaiting confirmation from DNA samples sent for overseas testing.
Meanwhile it was reported that Sarjou had left her home to go to the Diwali motorcade on the eve of November 4, 2010 with Naraine who had called her. He reportedly picked her up in his car and while she was sitting in the front passenger seat she was strangled by Pronton who was reportedly seated in the back-seat of the car.
Sarjou’s lifeless body was allegedly transported to Naraine’s house where he had allegedly dug her grave two days before she was killed.
