Justice Ibironke Harrison of the Lagos High Court, located at the Tafawa Balewa Square on Lagos Island, has instructed lawyers to submit their written addresses in the ongoing trial of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Drambi Vandi. Vandi is facing charges for the killing of Lagos-based lawyer, Mrs. Bolanle Raheem, on Christmas Day, December 25, 2022.
The order was issued during the latest hearing on Wednesday, May 31, after the accused police officer, Drambi Vandi, concluded his defence in court.
During his testimony, Vandi informed Justice Harrison that the bullet presented in court, which was alleged to have caused Bolanle Raheem’s death, did not originate from the rifle he carried on December 25, 2022. He further claimed that he had never seen the bullet until it was presented as evidence in court.
Vandi also discussed the training that police officers receive regarding the use of firearms and ammunition. He stated that he had undergone training at a local police school. There, he learned about different types of rifles, pistols, and ammunition. He added that he was taught how to assemble and dismantle firearms and ammunition.
Explaining the functioning of AK-47 bullets, Vandi said,
The magazine (Exhibit P19), containing six bullets, is the shell of an assorted rifle and is used in an AK-47, while the bullet (Exhibit P11a) is a long-range bullet. This bullet can cover over 500 meters and has the capacity to penetrate through multiple objects. However, it is not the ammunition used by the police, and I have never come across this exhibit before during my training.”
Vandi came under cross-examination by the Director of Public Prosecution, Dr Babajide Martins. During the process, he shared further details about the events surrounding the incident on Christmas Day.
Following Vandi’s testimony, Justice Harrison instructed the lawyers to file and exchange their written addresses. She further instructed that they be prepared for their adoption within 21 days. The court then adjourned further proceedings in the case until July 13, 2023, for the adoption of final written addresses.
As the trial progresses, the outcome of the case will determine the legal implications for ASP Drambi Vandi. Particularly in relation to the tragic death of Bolanle Raheem. Likewise, the court’s meticulous examination of the evidence presented will play a crucial role in delivering justice and bringing closure to this unfortunate incident
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