By: Audrey Raymonda John
Mohammed Sheriff, who was previously declared wanted by the court, has reappeared before Magistrate Mary Julia Gbloh at Pademba Road Court No. 5 in Freetown. Upon his return, he took the witness stand as a factual witness in an ongoing land dispute involving allegations of trespass and malicious damage.
A bench warrant had earlier been issued against Sheriff and his sureties after he failed to appear in court. Addressing the situation, Magistrate Gbloh firmly reminded all parties that her court is “not a playground,” emphasizing the need for seriousness and respect in judicial proceedings.
Sheriff is facing four counts, including threatening conduct and trespass contrary to Section 15(1) of the Public Order Act, as well as malicious damage contrary to Section 51 of the Malicious Damage Act 1861.
The allegations stem from repeated unlawful entry onto a parcel of land at Banga Farm and the destruction of a fenced gate valued at SLE 55,000.
In his testimony, Sheriff, a businessman residing at Tanris Mansion on Beach Road, stated that he knows the complainant as his neighbor. He told the court that on 13 March 2023, he received a call from a worker informing him that work on the land had been halted on the complainant’s instructions.
He explained that he later contacted a caretaker, identified as Mr. Francis, who informed him that the landowner was abroad and referred him to a representative named Nadia. According to Sheriff, Nadia encouraged him to continue work and directed him to another individual believed to be managing the property.
Sheriff further stated that confusion over ownership later arose during a visit to the site, leading to police involvement. The matter was initially reported at Adonkia Police Station and later transferred to Lumley Police Station for further engagement.
Addressing the allegation of malicious damage, Sheriff told the court that on 2 June the date in question he was in Dubai and therefore could not have committed the offense.
During cross-examination by Counsel A. J. Sesay, Sheriff gave inconsistent responses regarding key dates and appeared uncertain about individuals connected to the property. He denied knowing the rightful owners of the land and rejected claims that he had sought a share in it.
He also denied authorizing the destruction of the gate, stating that he had no knowledge of any such instruction.
Defense counsel J. Ansumansa informed the court that additional witnesses may be called at the next hearing.
Magistrate Gbloh adjourned the matter to 1 April 2026 for further proceedings, reiterating her insistence on order and discipline in the conduct of cases before her court.