March 23, 2021
By: Francis F.M.Harding
Magistrate Marke Ngegba of Pademba road Magistrate Court in Freetown has on Monday, 22nd March, slammed eight months jail sentence on accused persons Saidu Momoh Conteh, a prison Officer for unlawful possession of unlawful substance contrary to the Laws of Sierra Leone.
According to the case file, the accused on 30th January, 2021 at the Male Correctional Centre Pademba Road in Freetown was found in possession with a narcotic substance of the street name Kush inserted in his anus. He was said to have being searched as a routine measure when entering the prison correctional facility.
The accused pleaded guilty to the said charge and made five appearances before Magistrate Marke Ngegba at Pademba Road Freetown before he was finally sentenced.
Before passing verdict, Magistrate said that the Prosecution has proven their case beyond all reasonable doubt against the accused person. Addressing counsels members, Magistrate Marke Ngegba said the accused was charged on one count charge for unlawful possession of substance contrary to section 33 (1) of Cap.37 as Amended by section 5 of Act No.6 of 1981 contrary to Laws of Sierra Leone.
The prosecution led their Police Constable 15152 Turay H. Ballah, who presented and tendered the Kush substance as exhibit in court. However, the Lawyer from Legal Aid Board Charlie Williams pleaded with the court that his client is a family man and bread winner. He added that he is first time offender, and he has no criminal records. The counsel added that his client has been of good conduct throughout this trial and has promised not to come in conflict with the law.
The accused Saidu Momoh Conteh was serving at the correctional center as a Prison office, an institution which he served for nine years until his dismissal.