Ibrahima Bah’s appeal against his manslaughter conviction was rejected, following the deadly sinking of a boat in the English Channel that claimed four lives.
Dover: So, here’s the scoop. Ibrahima Bah, the guy piloting that ill-fated boat across the English Channel, just lost his appeal. He was found guilty of manslaughter after four migrants died during the crossing.
Bah was sentenced to nine and a half years for his role in the tragedy that happened back in December 2022. The boat he was steering was in terrible shape and way overcrowded, with about 45 people on board when it should’ve only held 20.
During his retrial, Bah claimed he was forced to pilot the boat by smugglers who threatened his life. But the court wasn’t buying it, saying he had a responsibility to the people on board.
He also faced charges for helping people enter the UK illegally. When he tried to appeal, the Lady Chief Justice ruled that his case wasn’t strong enough to proceed.
Supporters showed up at his previous hearing, highlighting how charged this whole situation is. The prosecution argued that everyone on that boat was in it together, and Bah’s actions led to the tragic deaths.
After the sinking, 39 survivors were rescued and brought to Dover. Among the deceased was a man from Afghanistan, Hajratullah Ahmadi, who left behind a young daughter. It’s a heartbreaking situation all around.
