By: Audrey Raymonda John
Four Lebanese nationals Ali Jaffal, Abdul Jaffal, Abdallah Jaffal, and Abass Antar were fined Le 1,000 each or, in default, face 18 months imprisonment after being found guilty of disorderly conduct at the Young Sports Club (YSC) on Wilkinson Road, Freetown.
The case, presided over by Magistrate Santigie Bangura at Pademba Road Court No. 2, involved a total of seven accused: Ali Jaffal, Abdul Jaffal, Abdallah Jaffal, Mohamed Jaffal, Abass Antar, Naif Antar, and Hassan Jaffal. They were charged on seven counts, including wounding, assault, affray, throwing missiles, and disorderly behavior.
According to the prosecution, the incident occurred on Saturday, 6th April 2024, at the YSC facility, where the accused allegedly wounded Adam Hamdan and Mohamed Aroune. The charge sheet further stated that the accused engaged in violent behavior by assaulting the victims, throwing sticks and stones, and creating a public disturbance.
All accused persons pleaded not guilty to the charges.
However, Magistrate Bangura found the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 5th accused persons guilty on Count Five disorderly behavior. The 4th, 6th, and 7th accused were discharged due to lack of sufficient evidence.
During sentencing, State Prosecutor Yusif Isaac Sesay argued that the convicts should face 20 months imprisonment without the option of a fine, emphasizing the supremacy of the law.
In response, Defense Counsel J.J. Vandy pleaded for leniency, citing that the convicted individuals were first-time offenders who had shown remorse and good behavior throughout the proceedings.
Magistrate Bangura, considering the mitigating factors and the conduct of the accused during the trial, ruled that each of the convicted individuals should pay a fine of Le 1,000. In default of payment, they would serve 18 months in prison.