Statement On Behalf Of The Rajib Family

Defendant sentenced to 16 months for causing serious injury by dangerous driving following Eid celebration crash

Marian Kabah has today pleaded guilty to two charges of causing serious injury by dangerous driving following a road traffic accident in June 2017 at an Eid celebration in Newcastle, and sentenced to 16 months in prison.

Zaryab Rajib, aged 8, was one of a number of people injured after Miss Kabah lost control of her vehicle and drove through a crowd during an Eid celebration at Westgate Road Community College. He suffered brain and multiple orthopaedic injuries. Zaryab's father, Abdul, suffered a fracture to his right ankle in the accident which continues to impact on his daily life.

The family issued the following statement after today's hearing:

"We are relieved that Mrs Kabah has admitted that she was guilty of causing serious injury to Zaryab as a result of her dangerous driving. We feel that it is right that she has accepted the consequences of her actions and we are satisfied with the sentence she has received from the court today.

Zaryab was an exceptionally bright, happy and independent young boy who loved to play football. He suffered serious head and orthopaedic injuries in the accident which will alter the course of his life. He is slowly returning to his pre accident life but has a long way to go before he is able to enjoy many of...