A Guinean national, Mohamed Jalloh, appeared before Magistrate Mustapha Braima Jah at the Pademba Road Magistrate Court No.1 on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, on charges of drug trafficking and customs duty evasion.
Jalloh faces three counts under the National Drug Control Act of 2008 and the Customs Act of 2011, including possession of a prohibited drug, transportation of a prohibited drug, and evasion of customs duties.
Investigators said he was arrested on July 26 at the Gbalamuya border in Kambia District after border officials discovered 79 grosses, nine packets, and nine strips of Tramadol 225mg concealed in his possession. He also allegedly attempted to smuggle 132 undeclared mobile phones across the border.
Detective Sergeant Sundu S.K. of the Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU) testified that he handled the case file and presented the seized drugs as evidence. He also produced Jalloh’s caution statement and legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), which authorized the charges.
Defense lawyer J.N. Jengo challenged the investigation’s credibility, arguing that other passengers in the vehicle were never questioned. He also noted that the arresting officer was absent from the scene and requested the matter be transferred to the High Court for proper examination.
State Counsel A.B.N. Taylor Kamara countered that the prosecution had established a prima facie case and urged the magistrate to proceed with committal.
Magistrate Jah said his ruling would be guided strictly by law rather than public opinion and adjourned the case to Thursday, August 21, for a decision on whether it should be sent to the High Court.
