By Audrey Raymonda John
Samuel Caulker, a 30-year-old mechanic and owner of The View Club, appeared before Magistrate Sahr Kekura of Pademba Road Court No.1 in Freetown, facing multiple charges including obtaining money by false pretenses and malicious damage. The charges stem from incidents allegedly occurring between October and November 2023 in Freetown.
Caulker stands accused of maliciously damaging a side mirror of a sport edition vehicle belonging to Charles Abass Bangura, with registration number CAB 416, valued at $850 or approximately 19,977 Leones. Additionally, he is accused of obtaining money under false pretenses from Bangura, promising to repair a shift steering fault on a Toyota 4runner Jeep with registration number AUN 929, and a sensor problem on a Benz C300 with registration number ARK 512. Bangura, a barrister and solicitor, testified that Caulker had worked for him as a mechanic and had promised to rectify these issues but failed to do so.
Despite pleading not guilty, Caulker was refused bail by Magistrate Kekura and was remanded to the male correctional center in Freetown. The matter has been adjourned to February 21, 2024, for further proceedings.
Defense counsel A.D Archto sought bail on behalf of Caulker, citing his Sierra Leonean residency, reliable sureties, and commitment to comply with legal proceedings. However, the magistrate’s decision underscores the seriousness of the charges laid against Caulker.
The case highlights the importance of accountability in matters of fraud and property damage, with legal authorities taking a firm stance to ensure justice is served. Further developments in the case will be closely monitored as it progresses through the legal system.
