A tense courtroom drama unfolded at the N’Djamena Court of Appeals on Monday, June 8, as a man stood trial for allegedly selling the same plot of land to multiple buyers while facing death threats charges. The landmark case, which lasted over four hours, centers on accusations of fraud and illegal land possession in Chad’s capital.
The defendant, who allegedly collected payments ranging from 52 million to 99.5 million francs CFA from several victims, faces intense scrutiny as both prosecution and defense present conflicting accounts of the land’s ownership and transaction validity.
heated legal battle erupts over disputed land sales
During the proceedings, the defense team argued that their client was unlawfully detained for over three months by intelligence services before being brought before the court. They maintained that the land in question is undisputedly owned by their client as the legal representative of his late brother’s estate, denying any fraudulent intent.
In contrast, the civil party’s legal representatives condemned the defendant’s actions as clear land fraud, demanding full reimbursement of all payments received plus compensation for damages. The prosecution echoed these concerns, emphasizing that receiving substantial sums from multiple individuals constitutes a criminal offense under Chad’s penal code. The prosecutor requested a fine of 500,000 francs CFA alongside the conviction.
Tensions flared when the defense invoked articles 213 and 214 of the Chadian penal code, arguing the charges do not apply in this instance. However, the prosecution dismissed this claim, asserting that the defendant’s conduct fits the legal definition of fraud.
family dispute fuels legal complexity
The defense shed light on alleged manipulation within the family, claiming that the defendant’s uncle had orchestrated false claims to the property, prompting multiple buyers to seek legal recourse. The courtroom witnessed heated exchanges between both legal teams as they presented evidence and counterarguments.
With the case adjourned for deliberation, the defendant remains in custody at Klessoum Prison. This marks the second consecutive court session for the same matter, following a previous hearing on June 1. The outcome of this high-stakes case could set a precedent for land transaction disputes in Chad.
