Orissa High Court Rejects Bail for Nigerian National in Doctor's Suicide Case
The Orissa High Court has firmly dismissed the bail application of a Nigerian citizen accused of abetting the suicide of a woman doctor through alleged blackmail and overstaying in India with forged travel documents. This decision underscores the court's serious stance on crimes involving digital harassment and immigration fraud.
Arrest and Allegations in the Cuttack Case
On March 24 last year, the Cuttack Commissionerate Police arrested 31-year-old Djedje Raymond, also known as Chijioke John Okoye, from Delhi. He was linked to the tragic suicide of a lady doctor in Cuttack on March 1. The accused, a resident of Abidjan in Nigeria, had filed a bail petition in the High Court on December 22, seeking release.
Court's Observations on Grave Evidence
During the hearing on April 9, Justice Gourishankar Satapathy noted that the allegations against the accused were extremely serious and supported by prima facie evidence. This evidence includes a suicide note and digital materials recovered during the investigation, which strongly implicate him in the case.
Details of the Prosecution's Claims
According to the prosecution, the accused had developed a relationship with the deceased and allegedly extorted money from her through threats and blackmail. Unable to endure the continuous harassment, the woman reportedly died by suicide, leaving behind a note that directly implicated him in her death.
Opposing the bail, additional public prosecutor R.B. Mishra submitted that the accused had been intimidating the victim over the phone. Investigators have recovered the mobile phone used for communication, with a SIM number mentioned in the suicide note, further strengthening the prosecution's claims of his involvement.
Immigration Violations and Forgery Charges
Justice Satapathy also took serious note of the petitioner's immigration status. Investigations revealed that he entered India on a tourist visa in November 2019 but had overstayed since April 2020. Verification by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in Hyderabad indicated significant discrepancies in his documents.
- Use of a visa number issued to another individual
- Suspected forged visa sticker
- Evidence pointing to impersonation
Observing that the accusations involve abetment of suicide along with offences related to forgery and illegal stay, Justice Satapathy held that this was not a fit case for granting bail at this stage, ensuring the legal process proceeds without interference.
