Abdul Kpaka to Face Judge-Only Trial for the Murder of Sia Kamara

September 27, 2024

The High Court of Sierra Leone has ruled that Abdul Kpaka, a businessman and lecturer accused of murdering his girlfriend Sia Kamara, will undergo a judge-alone trial. This decision followed intense discussions between the prosecution and defense teams.

Kpaka is accused of killing Kamara, a former Communications Executive at the Freetown City Council, during a domestic dispute. The trial is being overseen by Justice Momoh Jah Stevens, who noted significant developments in the case.

The prosecution advocated for a judge-only trial, citing concerns over potential jury bias, while the defense argued that Kpaka had the constitutional right to choose between a judge or a jury. Despite the defense's objections, Justice Stevens determined that a judge-alone trial would best serve the interests of justice.

The first witness to testify was Christiana Kamara, the younger sister of the victim. She described a turbulent relationship between her sister and Kpaka, alleging that he had a history of both physical and verbal abuse. The defense, however, challenged her credibility, asserting that some of her statements were based on hearsay.

The trial is set to continue on October 3rd.