Mangochi Senior Resident Magistrate Muhammad Chande has yesterday on 7 January 2025 denied bail to musician Abdul-Karim Saidi, popularly known as Bandera, who is facing charges of abducting a female minor.

The decision came after the state added a charge of defilement to the case, based on a medical report. However, no conclusive evidence of sexual activity during the three days of alleged cohabitation was presented in court.

During the hearing, the victim’s mother testified and stated that she had forgiven Bandera on the condition that he stays away from her daughter, allowing her to focus on her education.

The 14-year-old girl, who testified in camera, appeared calm during her session but broke into tears after leaving the courtroom.

The case has been adjourned to January 9th for a determination on the added charge of defilement, which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.