The Mbour High Court has delivered its verdict in a fraud case involving a substantial sum of money. Mr. Gaye was sentenced to three months in prison, suspended.

The defendant had received 70 million CFA francs (approximately $115,000) from the plaintiff, Aminata, for the purpose of purchasing a field. At the stand, Mr. Gaye attempted to justify himself by claiming he had loaned the money to a man named O. Sy.

"She asked me to find her a field. Not wanting to keep the money, I loaned it to O. Sy," he stated.

This version of events was quickly challenged by the presiding judge, who pointed out that the aforementioned O. Sy categorically denies receiving a single franc. Despite this contradiction, the defendant remained firm in his statements.

When questioned by his lawyer, Me Bassirou Sakho, on why he did not return the money to the concerned party, Mr. Gaye explained that the land seller had allegedly asked him to hold onto it for the time being. Fearing he might spend the sum, he said he chose to loan it to O. Sy.

On the side of the civil party, represented by A. Wone, an out-of-court settlement was discussed before the tribunal. The defendant's family requested a four-month period to repay the entire amount.

To guarantee this commitment, two properties—a house and a plot of land—were assessed at the value of the 70 million CFA francs. If repayment is not made within the allotted time, these assets will be seized for the benefit of the plaintiff.

It should be noted that O. Sy, the central figure in the defendant's claims, did not appear at the hearing, despite being summoned as a witness.

The defense lawyer, for his part, pleaded for the court's leniency, a request partially granted with the suspended sentence.

Khady Ndoye