VICTORIA, Seychelles, In a recent ruling, the Supreme Court has ordered the prosecution to share details regarding individuals involved in the investigation and Operation Black Iron, involving prominent business couple Mukesh and Laura Valabhji. The Valabhjis, who are the primary suspects in a case involving firearms and terrorism prevention, requested this information, highlighting the prosecution’s consistent failure to meet disclosure obligations. The ruling represents an important step in ensuring that the defendants’ right to a fair trial is respected.
Chief Justice Rony Govinden, in his assessment, emphasised the relevance of the materials to the defence. The issue for the court’s consideration is whether the materials in issue are helpful to the defence, he stated, underscoring their importance despite not being directly relied upon by the prosecution. He found some of the requests, such as confirmation of VPH employees’ identities and details of their lawful powers, to be fair and reasonable.
It was Peter Bennett, a witness who testified before court on February 7, 2024 who made reference to the involvement of a private company, VPH, in the investigation of the case. However, CJ Govinden declined certain requests, including disclosure of service agreements between the ACCS and VPH employees, deeming them irrelevant to the case. It is their exercise of lawful powers in compliance with the laws of Seychelles that is important in these proceedings, he emphasised, highlighting the significance of adherence to Seychelles’ laws.
Regarding the disclosure of the unredacted Briefing Note related to Operation Black Iron, CJ Govinden sided with the prosecution, explaining that a redacted version had already been provided to the defence. The ruling was delivered on Friday. The prosecution was given five days to furnish the requested details and records. Meanwhile, in the ongoing trial, former President James Michel is set to testify via video link from the Seychelles embassy in the UAE this morning.
Alongside the Valabhjis, other individuals, including former Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF) senior official, Leslie Benoiton, retired lieutenant colonel and presidential chief security officer, Frank Marie, and former chief of the Defence Forces, Leopold Payet also stand accused. The five are facing trial for their roles in relation to the seizure of more than 60 firearms and over 30,000 rounds of ammunition from the Valabhji home at Morne Blanc on November 18, 2021. The case is expected to continue in the coming weeks, with further rulings and testimony anticipated.
