By: Audrey Raymonda John
Mohamed Kamara, a 57-year-old farmer, and Mustapha Fredrick Conteh, 62, made their first appearance before Magistrate Mamakoh Saio Kallon at the Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 3 in Freetown on charges related to the unlawful possession and control of a firearm.
The two accused are facing six counts, including possession of arms without a license, custody of arms without a license, and control of arms without a license.
According to the particulars of the offence, between 1st January 2023 and 19th May 2025, at Mothaim Village in the Western Area of Freetown, the first accused (Mohamed Kamara) was allegedly found in possession of a single-barrel shotgun with serial number 133477, without a valid license.
Count One states that the first accused was in possession of the shotgun without a license. Count Two alleges that he had custody of the firearm. Count Three charges him with having control of the firearm without proper authorization.
Similarly, the second accused (Mustapha Fredrick Conteh) faces count Four, for possession of the same firearm without a license. Count Five, for having custody of it. Count Six, for having control over the weapon, also without a license.
When the charges were read and explained in court, no plea was taken from either of the accused.
The prosecution, led by Inspector T. Macfoy, has commenced proceedings by presenting the first prosecution witness.
Magistrate Kallon, citing the seriousness of the offences, denied bail and ordered that both accused be remanded at the Male Correctional Centre in Freetown. The matter was adjourned to 23rd September 2025 for further hearing.