By Alimatu Jalloh
Freetown, Sierra Leone – Abdul Kamara, popularly known as Bigitel, is reportedly on the run after being granted bail alongside Ishmail Koroma, a teacher, and Sallieu Bangura. The three are currently facing trial before Justice Alhaji Momoh Jah Stevens at NASSIT Court in Freetown for allegedly being in possession of Kush and cannabis sativa, totaling 15.8 grams, without lawful authority.
Failure to Appear in Court
During proceedings on 19 March 2025, none of the accused persons or their sureties appeared before the court. The bail was initially granted on humanitarian grounds following a request by defense counsel Claudius Campbell. However, Justice Stevens revealed receiving information suggesting that Bigitel was attempting to leave the jurisdiction, which may explain his absence alongside his sureties.
In response, Justice Stevens issued a bench warrant for all three accused persons and their sureties. He also ordered the confiscation of Bigitel’s house at No. 3D Kamanda Farm, Mamba Ridge, Kissy, Freetown, directing the immediate eviction of its tenants until Bigitel appears in court.
Court Orders and Case Details
Further enforcement orders were issued to the bailiffs at the Undersheriff’s Office to ensure the confiscation was carried out effectively. The matter has been adjourned to 21 March 2025.
The accused are facing seven charges, including possession of prohibited drugs without lawful authority. According to the indictment, on 23 September 2023, at Mamba Ridge, Kissy, Freetown, the accused were found in possession of:
- 181 wraps of Kush weighing 20 grams.
- 278 wraps of Kush weighing 152.6 grams.
- 36 sachets of Kush weighing 20.5 grams.
- 76 wraps of cannabis sativa weighing 25.6 grams.
Additionally, they were reportedly in possession of loose quantities of cannabis sativa (15.8 grams), one sachet of ecstasy (20.2 grams), and eight sachets of Kush (17.6 grams), all without lawful authority.
Bail Conditions
The accused were granted bail with one surety for each. Conditions required each surety to sign a bail bond of 50,000 New Leones, not as a payment but as a guarantee. Each surety was also required to possess an authentic national identification card issued by the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA).
The court’s latest orders reflect its firm stance on ensuring accountability as this high-profile case unfolds. The legal battle continues, with further developments anticipated in the coming days.