By Audrey Raymonda John
Magistrate John Manso Fornah of Pademba Road Court No. 2 has committed Alpha Kamara, a labourer, to the High Court to stand trial on allegations of housebreaking and larceny contrary to Section 20(1) of the Larceny Act of 1916.
According to the police charge, on Monday, 29 June 2026, at No. 22 Garrison Street, Freetown, Western Area of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Kamara allegedly broke into the dwelling house of Ishamil Kuyateh with intent to steal.
The charge further alleged that the accused stole half a bag of bitter kola valued at NLe 17,500, a pair of white slippers valued at NLe 50, and an electric extension valued at NLe 150, with the total value of the alleged stolen property amounting to NLe 17,700.
When the charge was read and explained to Kamara, no plea was taken, as the matter was before the court for committal proceedings.
The prosecution was represented by Deputy Superintendent of Police Sorie Conteh, who informed the court that the case was ready for the prosecution.
In his ruling, Magistrate Fornah said he had carefully considered the evidence presented by the prosecution, including both factual and formal evidence, as well as the exhibits tendered before the court.
The Magistrate also noted that the prosecution had produced a voluntary caution statement allegedly made by the accused to the police, in which Kamara admitted to the allegations on page two of the statement.
Magistrate Fornah stated that it was the duty of the prosecution to adduce sufficient evidence connecting the accused to the offence charged before a matter could be committed to the High Court.
Having reviewed the evidence, he said he was satisfied that the prosecution had established sufficient evidence linking Kamara to the alleged offence to warrant his committal to the High Court.
The Magistrate therefore committed Alpha Kamara to stand trial before the High Court.
However, he granted the accused bail in the sum of NLe 20,000, with one surety who must be a senior responsible citizen residing in Freetown, have a fixed address and be gainfully employed, with proof of employment.
The surety was also ordered to produce a valid National Identification Card and make the bail application pursuant to Section 116(1) of the Criminal Procedure Act, 2024.
Magistrate Fornah further ordered that the bail conditions be approved by the Deputy Assistant Registrar.