Lusaka banker Brian Chanda has pleaded not guilty to one count of criminal trespass at State House, with intent to annoy.

And Chanda has been granted a K10,000 bail in his own recognizance with two working sureties to be bound in the like sum, from reputable organizations.

Particulars of the offence are that Chanda, 36, of Ibex Hill, on June 2, 2018, in Lusaka District, unlawfully did enter upon the premises of State House with intent to commit an offence namely; annoy.

And taking plea before Magistrate Albert Mwaba, Tuesday, Chanda denied committing the offence.

He was, however, granted bail after his lawyer Mwila Chibiliti made an application that the accused be granted bail because the matter he was charged with was bailable.

“The accused has been in custody for seven days having been denied bond. Therefore, we apply that the accused be granted bail as the matter he is charged with is bailable. He is a first-time offender and has established employment at a senior level in a government bank with fixed aboard. He is a family man and will avail himself as and when required by the Court,” Chibiliti said.

And passing judgement on the bail application, Magistrate Mwaba granted the accused a K10,000 bail in own recognizance, with two working sureties from reputable organizations.

“Bail is granted in the sum of K10,000 in his own recognizance and will provide two working sureties to be bound in the like sum in their own recognizance and must be Lusaka residents from reputable organizations,” ruled Magistrate Mwaba.

The court adjourned the matter to July 4 for commencement of trial.