Student Charged with Impersonating Police Officer in Court

By Fatima Kpaka

In a startling turn of events, Abubakar Sesay, a 25-year-old student, was dragged to court on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, for allegedly impersonating a police officer. The case was heard before Magistrate Santigie Bangura at the Pademba Road Court No. 2.

Sesay faces two serious charges: impersonation, under Section 3 of Cap 34 as amended by the Personation and Uniform Amendment Act No. 13 of 1975, and unlawful possession, under Section 13 (1) Cap 37, amended by Section 5 of Act No. 6 of 1981.

According to court documents, on Sunday, September 15, 2024, at #15 Will Street in Freetown, Sesay was caught wearing Sierra Leone Police uniform trousers without lawful authority. Additionally, on the same date and location, he was found in possession of a Sierra Leone Police raincoat jacket and another pair of police trousers, items believed to have been unlawfully obtained.

Sesay, when confronted with the charges, pleaded not guilty. However, the prosecution, led by DPC Thoronka K.K, faced an immediate hurdle as their witnesses were absent from court. The prosecutor requested an adjournment to ensure the appearance of the necessary witnesses.

Despite the severity of the charges, Magistrate Bangura granted Sesay bail in the sum of 20,000 new Leones. Two sureties were required, both of whom must be residents of Freetown and responsible citizens. The bail conditions were subject to approval by the Deputy Assistant Registrar.

The case has been adjourned until October 21, 2024, for further hearing, as the court awaits the presence of key witnesses.

This incident has raised serious questions about the potential risks of impersonation and how individuals could gain access to official uniforms, leaving the public on high alert.

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