By: Audrey Raymonda John
Four individuals Sallieu Bangura, Sheku Sesay, Yayha Conteh, and Mohamed Jallohhave been brought before Magistrate Patrick Fofanah at Pademba Road Court No. 1, facing charges of larceny in a dwelling house under Section 13(a) of the Larceny Act of 1916.
The charges stem from an incident on April 1, 2025, when Sallieu Bangura allegedly entered the residence of Latoya Garber at No. 53 Wilkinson Road and stole a gold and diamond engagement ring valued at £3,000 (approximately 96,000 Leones).
During the hearing, Elizabeth Garber, a housewife of 14 Victoria Street, Regent, and mother of the complainant, testified. She identified the ring as a gift from her husband, purchased in England 37 years ago, and confirmed she had passed it on to her daughter, Latoya, after it no longer fit her.
Elizabeth also identified the first accused, Sallieu Bangura, stating he had worked as a security guard at her apartment five years ago. She noted that she did not recognize the other three accused.
She further testified that she was in Cape Verde on April 1 when Latoya called to inform her that the ring had gone missing. She contacted Bangura via WhatsApp, but he denied any knowledge of the item. Later, on April 27, Latoya informed her that Bangura had allegedly confessed to stealing and selling the ring for just 750 Leones.
The matter was subsequently reported to the Congo Cross Police Station. During the proceedings, ASP Wellington, prosecuting, asked about the sentimental value of the ring, which Elizabeth confirmed, reinforcing the significance of the loss.
The defense counsel applied for bail for the accused. However, ASP Wellington objected, citing the serious nature of the offense. Magistrate Fofanah stated that the objection would be taken under consideration.
The case has been adjourned to 28 May 2025 for further hearing.