By: Audrey Raymonda John
Forty-six-year-old Joseph Alpha Mannah, a businessman, has been granted bail by Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah of Pademba Road Court No. 1 after appearing before the court on two counts of conspiracy to defraud, contrary to law, and obtaining money by false pretences, contrary to Section 32(1) of the Larceny Act of 1916.
According to the particulars of the offence, between May 24 and May 31, 2026, in the Western Area of Freetown, Mannah allegedly conspired with other persons unknown to commit a crime, namely obtaining money by false pretences.
The second count alleged that on June 1, 2026, at Magburaka Town in the Tonkolili District, Northern Province, Sierra Leone, with intent to defraud, Mannah obtained the sum of US$5,000, equivalent to NLe120, 000, from Edward Alpha.
It is further alleged that Mannah falsely represented to Alpha that he had an 8/14 tipper truck for sale, knowing the representation to be false.
When the charges were read and explained to the accused, no plea was taken, as the matter is before the court for committal proceedings.
The prosecution, represented by Inspector Kadie Taylor, informed the court that she had served the defence counsel with copies of the case and inquiry files.
Defence counsel, Joshua A. Ansumana, Esq., acknowledged receipt of the documents and applied for bail on behalf of the accused pursuant to Section 76(1) (c) of the Criminal Procedure Act, 2024.
Magistrate Jah subsequently granted Mannah bail in the sum of NLe250, 000, with two sureties in like sum.
The court ordered that the sureties must be Sierra Leonean residents within the Freetown jurisdiction, with at least one surety required to be employed or provide proof of a business with a reputable organization.
The bail is to be approved by the Deputy Assistant Registrar.
The matter was adjourned to October 13, 2026.