Businessman Denied Bail in Prohibited Drugs Case

By Alimatu Jalloh

Freetown, Sierra Leone – In a continued court case, businessman Nyakeh Vandi reappeared before Magistrate Sahr Kekura at Pademba Road Court No. 1 on October 8, 2024, facing charges related to possession and transportation of prohibited drugs.

State counsel Y.A. Kamara informed the court that the first prosecution witness was absent due to an accident, causing a delay in presenting further evidence. Defense lawyer S. Conteh emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and urged the prosecution to bring alternative witnesses to expedite the trial. Conteh also requested a medical examination for the accused, citing his ill health.

Magistrate Kekura ruled that the state must provide another witness to ensure a speedy trial and approved the defense’s application for the accused to be medically examined. However, the magistrate denied bail, remanding Vandi at Pademba Road Correctional Center, with the case adjourned to October 15, 2024.

Vandi faces three charges, including possession and transportation of prohibited drugs, specifically two polythene bags of the substance known as Kush, which were allegedly found at the Fallah Security Checkpoint in Bo City on August 25, 2024.

The case continues.

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