By: Audrey Raymonda John
Wilfred Sadam, a 23-year-old bike rider, appeared before Magistrate Mustapha Braima Jah at Pademba Road Court No. 1 on October 10, 2025, facing a charge of unlawful possession. The charge is brought under Section 13(1) of the Criminal Procedure Act 39, as amended by Subsection 5 of Act No. 6, 1981.
According to the particulars of the offence, in July 2025, in the Western Area of Freetown, the defendant was found in possession of a black TVS HLX motorcycle, with registration number AWJ 231, which was suspected to have been unlawfully obtained. The value of the motorcycle was not specified in the charge.
When the charge was read and explained to Wilfred Sadam, he pleaded not guilty to the offence.
After hearing the charge, Magistrate Jah granted bail to the defendant in the sum of 20,000 Leones, with two sureties in like sum. The sureties must meet the following conditions: Be residents within the jurisdiction of the court. Produce proof of employment. Be at least 40 years old. Provide a valid identification card, including proof of their address in Freetown.
The bail application is subject to approval by the Deputy Assistant Registrar.
The matter was adjourned to October 17, 2025, for further proceedings.
The case continues to develop, with the defendant maintaining his not guilty plea to the charge of unlawful possession.