Activist Mark Benschop was placed on self-bail yesterday when he made an appearance in the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court charged with the unauthorised use of a wireless radio and obstruction.

Mark Benschop

It is alleged that on October 29, 2009 at Caneview Avenue, Roxanne Burnham Gardens, Benschop installed on his premises unauthorised apparatus – one FM radio transmitter for wireless transmission without a licence.

It is also alleged that on the same day and place Benschop obstructed Valmikki Singh, a public officer, in the performance of his duties. Benschop pleaded not guilty to both charges.

In her bail application, attorney-at-law Faye Barker said that her client who is 37-years-old resides at 137 Caneview Avenue, Roxanne Burnham Gardens. He is a father of one and a human rights activist.

On the day in question, Barker said that the virtual complainant, Singh, had gone to the defendant’s home with an illegal warrant and broken into his home. She further told the court that no equipment was found as the charge had indicated.

Meanwhile, the prosecutor did not object to bail and acting Chief Magistrate Melissa Robertson placed Benschop on self-bail. He is to return to court on January 28.