By: Audrey Raymonda John
Victor Sharkah, a 44-year-old former police recruit, has been committed to the High Court by Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah of Pademba Road Court No. 1 in Freetown, following a preliminary investigation into allegations of perverting the course of justice, contrary to law.
According to the particulars of the offence, on Wednesday, 27th September 2023, in Freetown, the accused, knowing about the planned coup to overthrow the government of President Julius Maada Bio, allegedly fabricated evidence with the intent to pervert the course of justice. These actions were said to have occurred on the stated date and in the days following.
When the charge was read and explained to the accused, no plea was taken.
Prosecutor Sergeant 9939 Mohamed Lahai led witnesses during the preliminary investigation. Following the testimonies, the case file was withdrawn for ruling.
In his ruling, Magistrate Jah stated that, given the serious nature of the offence, the court’s responsibility during the preliminary investigation was to determine whether the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence to warrant a committal to the High Court.
He noted that, after examining the available evidence, he was satisfied that the prosecution had met that threshold. Consequently, he committed the accused to stand trial at the High Court in Freetown.
Sharkah was refused bail and remanded at the Male Correctional Facility in Freetown, pursuant to Section 120 of Act No. 32 of the Criminal Procedure Act of 1965.