By Alimatu Jalloh
In an ongoing embezzlement trial, Philip Vanjah, a businessman on Monday, November 4, 2024, was arraigned before Magistrate Santigie Bangura of Pademba Road Court No 2 on one count of embezzlement, contrary to section 17 (1) (b) of The Larceny Act 1916.
According to the particulars of the offence, the accused on a date unknown between January and April 2024 at 17 Saika Stevens in Freetown, fraudulently embezzled the total sum of Le 1,205,275 received by him on account of Fundex Foreign Exchange Bureau Sierra Leone Limited.
When the charge was read and explained to the accused person no plea was taken.
The prosecutor Assistant Commissioner of Police, Joan Bull during the previous appearance sought an adjournment date to tender her exhibit.
Joan Bull mentioned that they have identified several documents before the court and they are ready to proceed with speedy trial.
The Defence Council A Freeman applied for bail on behalf of the accused, stating that he is a Sierra Leonean and will not interfere with the prosecution witness, adding that the accused is not a flight risk and has reliable sureties to stand in his stead.
on be arraigned themselves whenever called upon.
The complainant Leo Sahid Koroma, a businessman, confirmed that he recognized the accused person as his Manager for Fundex Foreign Exchange Sierra Leone Limited for the western region. Sahid noted he had established a business unit with a capital of Le 239,000,00 and deposited Le 1,000, 000, 000, 00.
Leo recalled that in March, he requested f a meeting with the accused on three occasions, but he never showed up. He said that the accused person has deleted all their conversation via email and WhatsApp.
Kamara testified that he later realized that moneys were withdrawn from Bloom Bank Africa Limited without his approval.
Koroma confirmed that he opened an account and recognized the said account which was tendered as exhibit one to four. He also confirmed the memorandum of understanding which was produced as evidence.
He also tendered a letter of appointment of the accused as business manager, and other exhibits.
However, the case was adjourned to November 7, 2024, for further hearing.