Freetown, Sierra Leone — On September 17, 2024, Acting Chief Justice Nicholas C. Browne-Marke opened the September High Court Criminal Calendar by initiating proceedings for 94 criminal cases at the Main Law Courts Building. The “call over” serves to take pleas from all accused individuals committed for trial by Magistrates’ Courts and those indicted with a judge’s consent.
The opening ceremony featured a Guard of Honour by the Sierra Leone Police, setting a solemn tone for the proceedings. The charges against the accused range from treason and murder to robbery, larceny, and drug possession.
Among the notable cases, 49-year-old George Adams faces a three-count indictment for treason, misprision of treason, and murder. The State alleges that Adams attempted to overthrow the Sierra Leone government by unlawful means, including plans to seize military and governmental establishments. He pleaded not guilty and was remanded until October 1, when his trial will commence.
Other cases included 22-year-old Santigie Mansaray, who pleaded guilty to house breaking and larceny, receiving a 12-month prison sentence. Similarly, security guard Yusif Thoelly and laborer Alimamy Bangura were each sentenced to five years for their respective charges of office and store breaking and larceny.
The call-over process will continue, with cases being assigned to various judges for trial. This criminal session, held quarterly, highlights the Judiciary’s ongoing efforts to address serious offenses in Sierra Leone.
For further inquiries, the public can contact the Judiciary Communications at +23278244739, +23234617548, or +23279101086, or visit their website at www.judiciary.gov.sl.
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