By: Audrey Raymonda John
Abraham Ledford was arrested and charged on 29th October 2024 to stand trial before Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah for possession of prohibited drugs without lawful authority, contrary to Section 8(a) of the National Drugs Control Act 2008 (Act No. 10 of 2008).
According to the particulars of the offence, on Friday, 4th October 2024, at Quaker Lane, Cline Town, Freetown, Ledford was allegedly found in possession of a loose quantity of the drug known as “Kush” without lawful authority.
In court, Joseph Steven, a forensic analyst attached to the Transnational Organized Crime Unit at Togo Hill Station, testified that on Thursday, 10th October 2024, ASP Mohamed A. Kandeh of Ross Road Police Station submitted a laboratory request to analyze substances suspected to be illegal drugs.
The items submitted included 30.5 grams of suspected Kush seized from Ibrahim Desmond of No. 14 Water Lane, Cline Town, and five pink-colored tablets weighing 45 grams, identified as Tapentadol 225 and New Royal Tramadol 225, all without manufacturer details.
Steven conducted presumptive analysis in the presence of the accused and collected samples for further chemical and microscopic crystal examination. His findings revealed that Sample A tested positive for synthetic cannabinoids (Kush), while Sample B tested positive for tramadol with traces of Exibuy and Lavovenioi.
The forensic report, dated 21st October 2024, was produced and tendered in court as Exhibit J1–4.
During cross-examination by defense counsel Mohamed Yassin Conteh, the witness confirmed that the report was not personally handed over to him.
The case was adjourned to 24th July 2025 for further testimony.