Atlantic Pharmaceuticals Director Grilled in Court Over AKI Child Deaths Linked to Contaminated Syrup
AKI Bereaved Parents © Askanwi
By Fatoumata Jaiteh
The Director of Atlantic Pharmaceuticals Company Ltd, Ali Suman, faced intense cross-examination on 14th May 2025, as he took the witness stand before Justice Ebrima Jaiteh at the High Court in Banjul. The high-profile case, which has captured national attention, focuses on the deaths of over 70 children allegedly caused by contaminated cough syrups imported into The Gambia from India.
Mr Suman, whose company is named as the second defendant in the civil lawsuit, was questioned by lawyer Yassin Senghore, representing the plaintiffs—the grieving parents of the deceased children. Also named in the suit is Maiden Pharmaceuticals, an Indian drug manufacturer and the primary supplier of the syrups in question.
Taking the stand, Mr Suman gave an account of his professional background, stating that he had worked for more than a decade in a local pharmacy before becoming director of Atlantic Pharmaceuticals. He explained that the company was incorporated in 2019 and began importing pharmaceutical products in 2020, with its first shipment sourced from Maiden Pharmaceuticals. Suman also confirmed that Atlantic held a valid importation licence from The Gambia’s Medicines Control Agency (MCA).
During the cross-examination, lawyer Senghore pressed Mr. Suman on his qualifications and experience in pharmaceutical importation. “I worked for more than 10 years in a local pharmacy,” Suman responded. Senghore then remarked, “So, you are familiar with drug importation procedures and the laws that regulate them?”
A pivotal moment in the proceedings came with the presentation of Exhibit 10, a document submitted by the defense. Counsel Senghore challenged the authenticity of the document, pointing out that it was not issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO), contrary to earlier claims. Mr Suman later clarified that the document originated from Indian authorities.
Further questioning revealed that the certificate—submitted as part of Atlantic’s importation credentials—had expired in 2022. Mr Suman acknowledged the expiration and noted that Mr Tijan Jallow had signed the document on behalf of Mr Sait Kebbeh for the MCA.
Mr Suman had previously submitted an affidavit on 8th April 2025, which he formally adopted in court during his testimony. His statements are seen as crucial in determining the extent of Atlantic Pharmaceuticals’ liability in the tragic deaths.
The hearing has been adjourned to 21st May 2025, when cross-examination of Defence Witness 1 (DW1) by the plaintiffs’ legal team is expected to continue.
