BY PROBLYN J ALPHA
In a significant stride towards combating drug-related offenses, Kono District emerges at the forefront of the battle against narcotics, as declared by President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Retired Brigadier Julius Maada Bio, who labeled it a national emergency. The recent series of convictions in the Sefadu Magistrate Court underscores the district’s resolute stance against drug trafficking and possession.
Presiding over the Sefadu Magistrate Court, Magistrate Joseph Toby delivered stern sentences to several individuals convicted of unlawful possession of illicit substances. Kadiatu Kamara, apprehended on Monday, 1st April 2024, in Koakoyima, Tankoro Chiefdom, Kono District, was found guilty of possessing eighty-eight wraps of Kush, contravening Section 8 of the National Drugs Control Act No. 10 of 2008. As a consequence, Kamara received a sentence of fifty months imprisonment.
Similarly, Musa Kamara faced the legal ramifications of his actions when caught on Tuesday, 2nd April 2024, on Boroma Road in Koidu City, possessing nine kilograms of cannabis sativa and one hundred twenty wraps of Kush, violating Section 48(1) of the Pharmacy and Drugs Act 2001. The sentencing handed down by Magistrate Toby comprised twenty-nine months imprisonment for count one, twenty-five months for count two, and six months for count three, pertaining to frequenting, totaling fifty-six months of incarceration.
Adding to the list of convictions, Sahr Kassegbema found himself sentenced to twenty-five months imprisonment for possession of fourteen wraps of kush, in contravention of Section 48(1) of the Pharmacy and Drugs Act 2001. Kassegbema’s arrest, investigation, and subsequent court proceedings unfolded on Wednesday, 3rd April 2024, in Kainia Community, Tankoro Chiefdom, Kono District.
The prosecution in these cases was led by diligent officers, including Sgt. 9407 Kabia Patrick and PC 13595 Tachequee A.K., highlighting the concerted efforts of law enforcement agencies to uphold justice and tackle drug-related crimes.
Moreover, the Sefadu Correctional Centre currently detains over thirty accused individuals awaiting trial or judgment on charges related to drug offenses. This underscores the gravity of the issue and the ongoing commitment of authorities in Kono District to enforce the law and safeguard communities against the scourge of narcotics.
These convictions serve as a stern warning to potential offenders and affirm Kono District’s unwavering determination in combating drug-related activities, in alignment with national efforts to create a safer and drug-free society.
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