All trials postponed until further notice

All trials have been postponed until further notice because the prosecutors went on ‘strike’ on Monday to protest against the fact that their police protection has been removed. Justice and Police Minister Jennifer van Dijk-Silos told Times of Suriname that 200 policemen who work outside of the police force (KPS) were summoned back because the KPS is understaffed. Several of those policemen had been tasked with protecting members of the prosecution. The prosecutors have reportedly decided not to show up at the trials until further notice. Judge Ingrid Lachitjaranon Monday also expressed her disapproval regarding the fact that the lights in the courtroom keep going out. “I will not preside over any trials if this continues. I do not know where we ended up,” said the judge. The bailiff pointed out that he has told the authorities several times that the lights keep going out but that he was told each time that a report had to be drawn up. Judge Cynthia Valstein-Montnor recently also complained about the flickering lights. The building where trials are currently being held is reportedly worse that the old court building located along the Frederik Derbystraat. 21 suspects were scheduled to appear in court on Monday. Judge Lachitjaran on Monday moved the trials of suspects who are still in police custody to April 3. The trails of suspects who are not in jail have been moved to June 5. Attorney General Roy Bajnath Panday reportedly called the clerk of the court’s office to announce that the prosecutor would not show up in court. Minister Van Dijk-Silos explained that the members of the Security and Support Team (BBS) will keep protecting the prosecutors. She is also considering the possibility of letting members of the Central Intelligence and Security Department (CIVD) protect prosecutors. The minister also explained that she had informed the Public Prosecutor’s Office that the 200 policemen who worked outside of the police force would be summoned back. The minister is scheduled to meet with the AG to discuss the current situation.