In a recent court testimony at the Pademba Road Magistrate Court, Mary Finda Ngaujah, a security supervisor at Freetown International Airport, recounted a significant incident that unfolded during routine screening procedures. Her account revealed the discovery of a shotgun concealed within the luggage of Matthew Mendy, a 41-year-old Gambian herbalist, sparking concerns over unlawful possession of arms.

Ngaujah's vigilance during a standard security check at the airport's Westminster section led to the detection of the suspicious item on the scanning screen. Swift action followed, as she promptly alerted security personnel, including law enforcement and the Office of National Security (ONS), underscoring the efficiency of collaborative efforts in maintaining airport security.

Upon summoning Mendy for further inspection, Ngaujah meticulously scrutinized his belongings, uncovering the unauthorized firearm. Mendy's admission of ownership, coupled with his assertion that the weapon was intended for repairs upon his return to Gambia, raised red flags regarding the legality of his possession.

Notably, Ngaujah emphasized the rigorous three-tiered search protocol employed by airport security, underscoring the effectiveness of the thorough screening process in detecting potential threats. Her testimony shed light on the pivotal role played by diligent security measures in thwarting unlawful activities within airport premises.

Despite defense counsel Chernor Kamara's plea for bail, Magistrate Sahr Kekura upheld the decision to detain Mendy at the Freetown Male Correctional Centre, pending further legal proceedings. The case against Mendy for unlawful possession of a firearm serves as a reminder of the imperative to uphold stringent security standards to safeguard public safety and prevent illicit activities.

This incident underscores the critical importance of robust security protocols at airports, reaffirming the commitment of airport authorities to maintain vigilance and ensure the safety of passengers and personnel. As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this discovery, it serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in combating illicit arms trafficking and upholding security standards in aviation.