In an act of civic engagement that few would envy, 26-year-old builder Ibrahim Koroma graciously volunteered himself for an extended 40-month vacation at the exclusive Pademba Road Correctional Facility, courtesy of Magistrate Santigie Bangura. His journey began on Thursday, September 26, 2024, when the builder was rewarded for his creativity in redistributing local electrical assets — meter cables valued at NLe 25,860, to be exact.
Koroma, who has clearly shown a keen interest in electrical work, made his debut in court with a single charge of larceny under the prestigious Larceny Act of 1916. On August 7, 2024, at the luxurious Bio Drive, Spur Loop in Wilberforce, Freetown, Koroma exhibited his love for craftsmanship by appropriating four 2.5mm electrical cables, two rolls of 4mm electrical cables, and other assorted goodies belonging to one Emmanuel Waddie Konssa.
The accused, showing the ultimate form of humility, didn’t even trouble himself with a lawyer. Why complicate things when one can simply admit to the alleged redistribution of wealth in the form of copper wires? Upon hearing the charge, Koroma immediately pleaded guilty — a rare example of honesty in these electrifying times.
Sergeant 8811 Florence M. Wilson, the prosecution, confirmed that Koroma’s permanent record was a clean slate — until now, of course. Apparently, this was his first attempt at wiring his future this way. The absence of prior criminal ventures and the fact that Koroma generously saved the court from any lengthy dramas prompted a plea for mercy.
In response, Magistrate Bangura, known for his compassionate approach to law, decided to grant Koroma an all-expenses-paid 40-month ‘retreat’ at the male correctional facility in Freetown. The judge even added a glowing recommendation, commending Koroma for not wasting the court’s time, which no doubt expedited his admission to Pademba Road’s ranks.
While some may criticize this move as ‘theft,’ others could view Koroma’s actions as an unconventional attempt to ‘light up’ his life. With his newfound status as a state-sponsored guest, Koroma will have ample time to reflect on his career choices and perhaps contemplate a future in legitimate electrical installations — assuming he finds his way back to society before the lights go out.
Who says justice doesn’t have a spark of irony?