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The trial against a Western Isles trawler skipper accused of human trafficking has collapsed.

 

Alexander Murray, 49, was accused of exploiting two Ghanaian nationals on his Stornoway-based MFV Astra III.

 

The Lewis man also faced three charges relating to the safety of the vessel.

 

He denied the allegations.

 

But the case has been abandoned after just two main days of evidence.

 

 

"Human trafficking" trial collapses after "victim" hugs and kisses supposed trafficker

15 October 2015  

On Thursday morning, depute procurator fiscal Alison Wylie told Stornoway Sheriff Court she was dropping all charges.

 

Sheriff Mungo Bovey said Mr Murray was free to go.

 

The case went on the rocks after a supposed victim embraced and kissed Mr Murray in the courtroom.

 

At the end of Wednesday's court session, when the jury had left, Agbeko Aisbey - the second witness called by the fiscal to give evidence against Mr Murray - asked if he could if he could go and "say hello to my friend, the skipper."

 

The sheriff seemed surprised but gave permission for them to exchange greetings, provided they did not discuss the case.

 

Leaving the witness box, an emotional Mr Aisbey tearfully embraced Mr Murray who leant down over the dock to hug the fisherman.

 

Mr Aisbey was due to return to the witness box to be questioned by the fiscal today but she deserted the trial.

 

On Wednesday, first witness Issac Adokah was questioned by advocate Barney Ross.

 

Mr Adokah agreed that the living conditions onboard the boat were similar to other island trawlers.

 

His monthly pay of £800 plus £50 bonus made him more wealthier than he would be working in Ghana.

 

He also confirmed that though there were delays with the last two or months or so wages, he received more money overall that he was contractually entitled to.

 

The court heard that things were going fine until the fishing vessel broke down and required major repairs costing tens of thousands of pounds. The boat was not earning for about two months.

 

Mr Murray told the crew there would be delays in getting their wages but they would get paid eventually.

 

The advocate said the skipper told them they were free to go home or look for work on another fishing vessel.

Outside the courtroom, the two Ghanaian fishermen warmly embraced Mr Murray.