By: Audrey Raymonda John
Thirty-five-year-old trader, Sheku Kamara, has been sentenced to twelve (12) years imprisonment by Justice Isata Sellu Tucker of the High Court No. 5 on Siaka Stevens Street in Freetown, after being found guilty of unlawful possession of drugs, contrary to Section 8(a) of the National Drugs Control Act, 2008 (Act No. 10 of 2008).
According to the particulars of the offence, on 28th March 2024, in Freetown, the accused was found in possession of twenty-five grams of “kush”, a synthetic drug, without lawful authority
When the charge was read and explained to him, Kamara pleaded guilty. He was not legally represented but pleaded with the Court to temper justice with mercy on his behalf.
In her judgment, Justice Tucker noted that the accused pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity, thereby saving the Court’s time. She also took into consideration his expression of remorse and cooperation during the proceedings.
However, the Judge emphasized that drug-related offences are serious and that the Court must demonstrate its disapproval through a custodial or deterrent sentence. Taking into account the guilty plea and his plea in mitigation, Justice Tucker sentenced the accused to twelve years imprisonment at the Male Correctional Centre in Freetown.
The Court further ordered that the quantity of drugs seized be forfeited and destroyed by the appropriate authorities. Justice Tucker admonished the convict to refrain from any involvement in drug-related activities after serving his jail term.