By: Audrey Raymonda John
Thirty-two-year-old Memunatu Kamara Lebbie, a trader, and 45-year-old Joseph Lavalie, a mason, made their first appearance before Magistrate John Manso Fornah at Pademba Road Court No. 2 in Freetown on two counts of conspiracy to commit a crime and larceny.
The charges include conspiracy to commit a crime contrary to law and larceny contrary to Section 2 of the Offences Against the Person Act of 1861.
According to the particulars of the offence, on Monday, 6 April 2025, at Calaba Town in the Western Area of Freetown, the accused allegedly conspired together with other persons unknown to commit larceny.
Count two further alleged that on the same date and at the same location, both defendants stole one solar system valued at Le102,000, property of Maner Shabon.
When the charges were read and explained to the defendants, they pleaded not guilty.
During the proceedings, the prosecutor, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Sorie Conteh, informed the court that the complainant wished to address the bench.
The complainant told the magistrate that he did not wish to continue giving evidence in court at that time and appealed for the defendants to be granted bail while he considered taking another course of action.
Magistrate Fornah subsequently granted bail to both defendants in the sum of Le60,000 each, with one surety each.
The sureties must be senior responsible citizens residing in Freetown with fixed addresses and must present valid identification cards. Bail is to be approved by the Deputy Assistant Registrar.
The matter was adjourned to 14 May 2026.