Theft Held in Custody Over Alleged Theft at ECSL Premises
In a significant legal development, allegations of a coordinated conspiracy and theft have emerged at the Electoral Commission Sierra Leone’s (ECSL) Wellington Branch in Freetown’s Western Area. The accused group, comprising Mohamed Turay, a Labourer; Ishmael Sesay, a Private Security Officer; Charles F. Yonjai, an IT Technician; and Sahr Kamanda, a Businessman, made their initial appearance before Magistrate Mark Ngegba at the Pademba Road Court No. 1 in Freetown.
The charges, which include Conspiracy, Store Breaking, and Larceny, along with Receiving Stolen Goods, stem from an incident on September 12th, 2023, at ECSL's Wellington Branch. The individuals are accused of collaborating and conspiring to commit store breaking and larceny, allegedly stealing 142 tablets valued at four million one hundred and ten Kenyan Shillings.
Further complicating matters, the fourth accused is alleged to have knowingly received eleven ECSL Tablets, valued at three hundred and eighteen thousand five hundred and thirty-eight Kenyan Shillings, from Mohamed Turay, fully aware that these items were stolen.
During the court proceedings, all accused individuals pleaded not guilty. However, the absence of the prosecution witness prompted a brief adjournment. Subsequently, the accused were remanded to the male facility in Freetown, with the case scheduled for further hearing on December 11th, 2023. The prosecution is led by Assistant Superintendent of Police, Ibrahim S. Mansaray.
This legal saga unfolds against the backdrop of heightened scrutiny, emphasizing the significance of due process and a fair trial. As the case progresses, it will undoubtedly command attention, shedding light on the intricacies of the alleged conspiracy and theft at ECSL's Wellington Branch.