By Alimatu Jalloh
Freetown, 23 September 2024 – Sheku Bangura, 28, has been remanded in custody after making his first appearance before Magistrate Santigie Bangura at the Pademba Road Court No. 2, facing a charge of larceny. Bangura is accused of stealing $8,700 (equivalent to Le 210,540) and an additional Le 40,000, totaling Le 250,540, from businessman Kabbie Sesay in Waterloo, Western Rural Area, on 12 August 2024. The charges are in violation of Section 2 of the Larceny Act of 1916.
According to the prosecution, led by Deputy Superintendent of Police Sorie Conteh, the theft occurred between April 10 and August 12, 2024. Prosecution witness Kabbie Sesay testified that he received $8,700 in the presence of the accused. The following day, he discovered that a significant portion of the money was missing and questioned Bangura, who eventually admitted to taking it. Sesay reported the matter to the police after noticing additional cash—Le 40,000—was also missing.
Bangura allegedly led police to a stream where he claimed to have hidden the money, but none was found. He also sent his girlfriend to retrieve the stolen funds, though she returned with only Le 1,500.
The accused, who pleaded not guilty and is representing himself, cross-examined the witness but was denied bail by Magistrate Bangura. He was remanded to the Male Correctional Center, and the case was adjourned to 30 September 2024.
For more information, contact: Alimatu Jalloh
Crime and Legal Correspondent