In a significant development at the Kambia Magistrate Court, Magistrate George B. Samai has committed the cases of manslaughter, relating to the deaths of Kadiatu Bangura and Salamatu Jalloh in Bondo society bushes of Kabailor and Bubuya Villages, to the High Court.
During his ruling, Magistrate Samai noted that all accused persons had been charged with the offenses of conspiracy and manslaughter, both of which are serious violations of the law. He stated that with the severity of the charges and the substantial penalties they carry, the accused did not enter a plea.
Magistrate Samai stated thus, “This court has conducted only a Preliminary Investigation. The prosecution presented its case, calling five factual witnesses, one formal witness, and two medical practitioners, alongside submitting various exhibits as evidence.”
He further clarified that all prosecution witnesses had been cross-examined by the defense before the prosecution concluded its case, and added that following that, the defense, represented by their legal counsel, applied for the discharge of the accused.
The Magistrate went on to recall that he denied that application, and informed the defense that the case would proceed to the High Court, where the final judgment would be made. Despite their disappointment, the defense requested bail for the accused.
Recognizing the accused person’s consistent attendance at all court proceedings, Magistrate Samai admitted them to bail, and committed the matter to the High Court in Port Loko, where hearings are expected to commence in the coming months.
Following the ruling, State Counsel Lawyer Tenneh Tonia Smart, Esq., expressed her satisfaction, describing the commitment to the High Court as a significant achievement for the State. She emphasized her confidence that justice will be served for the victims and affirmed her commitment to diligently preparing for the upcoming High Court hearings.
Mr. Ishmael Cole, Programme Manager, Forum Against Harmful Practices (FAHP), expressed the organization’s dedication to ending Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Sierra Leone. Mr Cole said “we must not forget that two young girls died, their lives taken in a very brutal manner.” He regarded this case as a crucial step towards that goal, expressing gratitude the many victims and survivors of FGM whose voices have been heard today for the first time. He thanked the court and the process for being on the side of justice. Mr. Cole also thanked Irish Aid the donors for their unwavering support in making it possible to see an end to FGM in Sierra Leone a reality.
“This is the first FGM-related case to reach the High Court level. It marks a significant milestone for our organization, and we are committed to seeing it through to the High Court,” he stated.