By: Audrey Raymonda John
A 52-year-old Chinese national and mechanic, Liv Jin Jie, has been remanded at the Male Correctional Facility in Freetown following allegations of fraud involving over $136,000 USD. He made his first appearance before Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah of Pademba Road Court No.1 in Freetown.
The accused is facing a single count charge of Fraudulent Conversion, contrary to Section 20 (1)(4)(b) of the Larceny Act of 1916.
According to court documents, between October 1 and October 31, 2021, in Freetown, Liv Jin Jie allegedly fraudulently converted the sum of $136,600 USD (equivalent to Le 3,278,400) to his personal use. The amount had been entrusted to him by Mohamed Chernor Koroma for the specific purpose of purchasing a rig drilling machine and a stone crusher machine.
When the charge was read and explained, no plea was taken from the accused. Magistrate Jah refused bail, ordering that the accused be remanded in custody.
The case was adjourned to 23rd July 2024 for further proceedings.