June 9, 2021
By Audrey John
A heated argument has ensued between the Presiding Magistrate of Pademba Road Court number one, Sahr Kekura and Defence Counsel G. Conteh over an application made on behalf of his client Hassan Koroma.
Defence Counsel stated that it could be fair if his client is granted bail since the prosecution is not ready to go on with their matter.
The accused on the above action is before the court for Preliminary Investigation on two counts charge of conspiracy and malicious damage contrary to the law of Sierra Leone.
It was alleged on count one that on Sunday 18th April, 2021, in Freetown, the accused conspired with other persons unknown to damage eleven pillars belonging to Anthony AY Brewah, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice.
On count two, it was alleged on that same date, the accused maliciously damaged eleven pillars worth five million Leones belonging to Complainant.
He pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Counsel representing the State, IY Sesay informed the Bench that his witnesses are present but that he cannot go on because they intend to take another line of action in order to do justice to the matter.
He sought the court leave for an adjourned date to build up the Prosecution.
Counsel defending the accused G Conteh renewed his application for bail by adopting his previous bail applications.
He said since the Prosecution is not ready to go on, it could be fair for his client to be out on bail
The application of Defense Counsel annoyed the Bench who stated that Defence Counsel was trying to say if his client is not granted bail, it will be unfair.
Serious argument ensued between the two and Defense Counsel apologized saying his application was not on the contrary.
State prosecutor, I.Y Sesay intervened and apologized on behalf of Defense Counsel.
The accused was granted bail in the sum of twenty million Leones with a surety in like sum.
Magistrate Sahr Kekura ordered for his bail condition to be approved by the Deputy Acting Registrar and adjourned the matter to the 22nd of June, 2021.