By Belize Live News Staff: After a long legal battle spanning six years, Everald Sambula walked out of court a free man on Thursday. Sambula, now 24, had been accused of participating in an armed robbery at Premium Wines and Spirits on Newtown Barracks. The incident, which involved the theft of over $50,000, saw five victims robbed of cash and personal belongings.
Sambula faced five counts of robbery but was the only one arrested. His trial was set to begin before a jury when the Crown made an application to discontinue the case. This came after a critical witness, who was expected to testify, expressed fear and refused to appear in court.
Justice Candace Nanton initially ruled that the witness had to testify but later dismissed the case after their failure to appear. With no further evidence against Sambula, the court ordered his release.
Represented by attorney Leeroy Banner, Sambula can now move forward after years of legal uncertainty. Meanwhile, the two other alleged accomplices remain uncharged, and questions linger over their involvement.
