By: Audrey Raymonda John
The ongoing intimidation case involving Amara Dennis Turay, popularly known as Kao Denero, made another appearance before Magistrate Adama Kandeh at Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 4 on Monday, 11th August 2025. He faces two charges: Incitement, contrary to the law, and Intimidation, contrary to section 4(v) of the Public Order Act No. 46 of 1965.
According to the particulars of the offence, Kao Denero is accused of unlawfully inciting Medlenero and Amadu Sesay, along with other individuals, to assault the complainant, Fredrick Dapaye Peters, on 22nd February 2025 at Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel (located at No. 17 Lumley Beach Road, Freetown). The second count alleges that Kao Denero used the same individuals to behave in a disorderly manner at the same location and on the same date.
Upon the reading and explanation of the charges, the accused, Kao Denero, pleaded not guilty to both counts.
Magistrate Kandeh explained that the bench warrant previously issued for Kao Denero’s absence in court was due to his failure to provide formal documentation regarding his medical leave. She noted that the accused had requested two weeks of medical permission, but had exceeded this period without informing the court. Magistrate Kandeh further clarified that the defense counsel should have submitted formal reasons for the accused’s absence, either via email or a hardcopy document, confirming that the accused required additional medical attention.
The defense counsel, A. Kamara, applied for bail on behalf of the accused, stating that Kao Denero is a well-known ambassador for the Sierra Leone Entertainment Industry and has represented the country on various global platforms. Counsel argued that the accused is a positive role model for many young Sierra Leoneans and would always attend court as required. He also noted that the prosecution had not submitted any affidavit opposing the bail request, and based his application on Section 79(2) of the Criminal Procedure Act, 1965.
However, the prosecuting counsel, M. Sesay, opposed the bail application, arguing that it was not mandatory for the prosecution to submit an affidavit opposing bail, referencing Section 100X of the Criminal Procedure Act, 1965. He asserted that it was within the court’s discretion to decide on bail conditions and that the defense did not have the authority to prevent the court from granting bail. He requested that appropriate conditions be set to ensure that the accused would appear in court whenever necessary.
Magistrate Kandeh granted bail to Kao Denero in the sum of Le50,000, with two sureties who must reside within the court’s jurisdiction. The sureties are required to provide their National Identity Cards as proof of address in Freetown. The bail conditions are to be approved by the Deputy Assistant Registrar.
The case was adjourned to 18th August 2025 for further proceedings.