By Fatima Kpaka
Freetown, Sierra Leone – In a case against Pastor Fatoma Tommy Jusu, Detective Police Sergeant Issa Kamara on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, presented assorted security-related items as evidence before Magistrate Santigie Bangura at the Pademba Road Court No. 2.
Pastor Jusu is facing one count of operating a private security agency without a valid license, a violation of Section 31(8) of the National Security and Central Intelligence Act, 2023. The indictment alleges that the accused was found managing an unlicensed security company at #59C Leicester Road, Freetown, on July 5, 2024.
During the hearing, Detective Sergeant Kamara, attached to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters in Freetown, testified as a key witness for the prosecution. He explained his role in the CID’s exhibits office, where he is responsible for the registration and safekeeping of items related to ongoing investigations.
Sergeant Kamara recalled that on July 15, 2024, Detective Police Constable (DPC) Moseray M.S. from the Crime Prevention Unit at CID handed over several security items for safekeeping, which were later registered under serial number 068/2024. These items included:
- 8 security lights
- 9 old T-shirts
- 2 old trousers
- 12 polo shirts with the inscription “Be Careful Be Careful Worldwide”
- 3 old security handsets
- Various administrative documents such as application forms, payment vouchers, and security guard contact forms
- Security badges, a flag, and a receipt book.
All these exhibits were produced in court and formally tendered as evidence. The defense counsel, Chernor Kamara, cross-examined the witness but did not challenge the authenticity of the items presented.
State prosecutor Yusuf Isaac Sesay informed the court that the prosecution had closed its case and would rely on the evidence presented. In response, defense counsel Kamara stated that the defense would rely on the accused’s statement given to the police.
After hearing both parties, Magistrate Bangura adjourned the matter for ruling, which is scheduled for Wednesday, October 2, 2024. The pastor was denied bail and remains in custody at Pademba Road Prison.
Pastor Jusu’s alleged illegal operation of a private security firm highlights concerns over unregulated security services in the country. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for similar offenses under the newly enforced National Security and Central Intelligence Act.