By Fatima Kpaka
Freetown, Sierra Leone — Dramatic evidence was unveiled on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, during the ongoing Court Martial trial concerning the failed November 26, 2023, coup attempt. Detective Inspector Mohamed Jusu, a system and data analyst, presented CCTV footage allegedly showing two of the accused, Corporal Alpha Wurie Conteh and Corporal Ibrahim Kuyateh, firing RPG bombs at the Pademba Road Prison gate.
The footage was displayed before Judge Advocate Mark Ngegba and a panel of seven board members, providing pivotal visual evidence against the fourth and fifth accused in the case.
Key Revelations from the Trial:
- Footage Details:
The CCTV footage showed Corporal Alpha Wurie Conteh holding a rifle and RPG at the prison gate, while Corporal Ibrahim Kuyateh was seen launching an RPG. Both were identified exchanging communications and firing shots during the attack. - Digital Analysis:
Detective Jusu, attached to the Criminal Investigation Department, explained the steps taken to analyze the footage and digital evidence, which included screenshots and file transfers using secure software. The videos, captured from Pademba Road Prison’s cameras, were confirmed to have been recorded on November 26, 2023. - WhatsApp Communication Evidence:
Additional evidence revealed that Major Bai Sesay (the first accused) was in regular contact with one of the convicts, Amadu Koita Makalo, via WhatsApp calls and conference calls. These interactions allegedly coordinated plans leading up to the coup attempt. - Military Identification:
The fourth and fifth accused were identified through assistance from RSLAF personnel, who recognized them in the footage. Their alleged actions during the prison attack, including firing RPGs, were highlighted as crucial in the prosecution’s case.
Legal Challenges and Defense Arguments:
Defense attorneys raised questions about the integrity of the evidence. Lawyer Ibrahim Bangura, representing Major Bai Sesay, pointed out discrepancies between the provided materials and what was displayed in court, requesting a deferral of cross-examination. Meanwhile, lawyers for the fourth and fifth accused questioned the absence of audio in the footage and the process of their clients’ identification.
Next Steps:
The trial is set to continue on Thursday, November 21, 2024, with further cross-examination of the evidence on behalf of the first accused. The accused remain in custody as the high-profile trial unfolds, spotlighting one of the most controversial events in recent Sierra Leonean history.
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