By: Audrey Raymonda John
Emma Coker and Abdulai Khemolia appeared before Magistrate Mustapha Braima Jah at Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 1 on Tuesday, 10th June 2025, facing charges related to the assault of a youth, Mohamed Conteh, which allegedly led to his death.
At the hearing, Prosecutor ASP Ibrahim Mansaray informed the court that a key witness had been led during the last adjournment, and it was now the defense’s turn to cross-examine. However, the defense requested an adjournment. Subsequently, the witness fell ill and was unable to attend court.
Defense Counsel Kamara acknowledged the seriousness of the case and highlighted that the witness had failed to appear in court since February. He noted that this was the fifth consecutive week of the witness’s absence, while the accused have remained in custody.
Magistrate Mustapha Braima Jah emphasized the gravity of the case and expressed his desire for the matter to be concluded within ten working days.
Prosecutor ASP Ibrahim Mansaray requested another adjournment, explaining that the absent witness would be the final witness to testify in the case.
The accused, Emma Coker and Abdulai Khemolia, were remanded in custody. The matter was adjourned to Friday, 13th June 2025, for the cross-examination of the witness.
Emma Coker and Abdulai Khemolia face two counts: Conspiracy to Murder, contrary to Section 4 of the Offenses Against the Person Act of 1861 Murder, contrary to law.
The charge sheet states that on Sunday, 22nd December 2024, at Banana Water in Freetown, Emma Coker and Abdulai Khemolia conspired to murder Mohamed Conteh.