By: Audrey Raymonda John
Three men Anthony Kamara (20, a carpenter), Alusine Sesay (25, a labourer), and Josephus Mansaray (25, a labourer) — made their first court appearance before Magistrate Augustine Brima Samura at Pademba Road Court No. 8 in Freetown. They are facing two counts of conspiracy and store breaking, contrary to Section 26(1) of the Larceny Act of 1916.
According to the prosecution, on 27th May 2025, at the LEOCEM Cement Factory located at Bett Street, Kanikay, Cline Town in Freetown, the accused persons conspired with others unknown to commit store breaking and theft.
It is alleged that the accused broke into the lubricant store of the factory and stole:
208 litres of CLP Oil
180 litres of EP2 Oil
208 litres of 15W40 oil
The total value of the stolen property is estimated at Le62,798.00 all property of LEOCEM Cement Factory.
The accused did not enter a plea when the charges were read and explained in court.
Abubakarr Suma, a security officer from A.K. Security Company, testified as the second prosecution witness, led in evidence by Detective Police Constable 14898 Joseph C. Dumbuya.
Suma explained that he was the shift commander on duty at 2:00 a.m. on 27th May 2025 when he received a radio call for backup from one of his security personnel stationed at the factory. He promptly alerted OSD officers, and together they moved to the scene.
Upon arrival, he observed suspicious activity and saw the first and third accused persons attempting to escape. He ordered the OSD officers to arrest them. During questioning, the third accused allegedly admitted that five individuals were involved in the incident.
Suma said that while searching the surrounding area, they noticed two men hiding in the water behind a boat near the seaside. After persuasion, the first and second accused came out of the water and were apprehended.
The security team recovered four jerry cans believed to contain stolen lubricant products. The matter was later reported to Ross Road Police Station, and Suma made a formal statement to the police.
During proceedings, the accused were cross-examined by defense counsel S.L. Lewis.
Given the seriousness of the offence, Magistrate Samura denied bail, and the case was adjourned to 23rd June 2025.