By: Audrey Raymonda John
Richard Breima has been charged with robbery with violence and assault causing actual bodily harm after allegedly attacking and robbing a prominent businessman in Kenema.
According to police reports, the incident took place on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at around 8:00 p.m. at Gava Forestry Quarters in the Nongowa Chiefdom, Kenema District, Eastern Province of Sierra Leone. The victim, Abdulai Darboh, President of the Scrap Metal Association, was reportedly robbed of sixteen thousand United States dollars (\$16,000), twenty thousand Leones (Le 20,000), and a silver wristwatch.
Darboh, accompanied by his colleague Almamy Mansaray of No. 18 Nico Lane, Kissy, reported the robbery to the police station the following day. He stated that during the robbery, he was physically assaulted and sustained injuries. A suspect identified as Yassanch, alias “Ground,” was also mentioned in the report and may be identifiable if seen.
Following the complaint, the police issued a medical request form, and the victim was referred to Kenema Government Hospital for examination and treatment.
In addition to the cash and wristwatch, other valuable items reported stolen include five jerry cans valued at Le 3,080, thirty-nine gas bottles valued at Le 216,500, and 5,000 kilos of aluminum zinc valued at Le 195,700.
The second charge against Breima involves assault causing actual bodily harm, contrary to Section 47 of the Offences Against the Person Act of 1861.
During the initial court proceedings at the Pademba Road Court No. 1 in Freetown, presided over by Magistrate Sahr Kekura, prosecutor Alfred D. Williams of 19 Farma Street, Wellington, testified that he recognized both the accused and the complainant. However, his testimony was paused due to the emotional weight of the case.
The hearing has been adjourned to May 26, 2025, for further proceedings.