By: Audrey Raymonda John
Andrew Danny Stephanus Lahai made his first appearance before Magistrate Adama Kandeh at Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 4 in Freetown, facing charges of obtaining money by false pretenses, contrary to Section 32(1) of the Larceny Act 1916.
The accused was arraigned on one count of fraud, accused of defrauding Isatu Kargbo out of $2,000 (Two Thousand United States Dollars) between 7th and 14th July 2025. According to the particulars of the offense, Lahai, at Fides’ Law Chambers located at No. 3 Bright Lane, Cole Farm Wilkinson Road in the western area of Freetown, falsely claimed that he could provide a Canadian visa for Kargbo and facilitate the travel of Osman Bundu to Canada, knowing the claims to be untrue.
During proceedings, Prosecutor Inspector A.T. Bangura requested a short adjournment to allow for the presentation of witnesses.
The defense counsel, C.B. Amara, requested an adjournment, stating they had sought an alternative resolution, which they would present to the court at a later date. They also made a formal plea for bail on behalf of the accused.
After considering the defense’s plea, Magistrate Kandeh denied the application for bail and remanded the accused to the Male Correctional Facility. The case was adjourned to 4th September 2025 for further proceedings.