Sierra Leone’s Judiciary has presided over 38 criminal cases in Koidu Town as part of a two-week judicial session that commenced on February 17, 2025, and will conclude on March 1, 2025. This initiative, according to the Judiciary’s Communications Unit, aims to enhance access to justice by deploying judges to districts without resident High Court Judges.
The Koidu High Court Criminal Sessions, held in Kono District, are overseen by Honourable Justice Augustine K. Musa (J). State Counsel C.F. Sesay leads the prosecution, while Lawyer A.O. Kamara represents the defense.
A total of 49 accused individuals are facing various charges, including Murder, Manslaughter, Wounding with Intent, Sexual Penetration, Conspiracy, and different forms of Larceny. Several defendants have already entered pleas, including 24-year-old mason Ibrahim Allieu, 32-year-old miner Abdul Karim Conteh, and 22-year-old tailor Sahr Koroma, who pleaded guilty to Larceny, with sentencing pending. Additionally, 39-year-old carpenter Ibrahim Rogers admitted to Manslaughter, while Sahr Suma pleaded not guilty to charges of Murder and Unlawful Possession of Small Arms.
In cases involving Sexual Penetration, Osman Sesay, Aiah Kpakiwa, Allieu Juldeh Jalloh, Sahr James, and Abdul Koroma all pleaded guilty upon arraignment.
Justice Musa, in his opening remarks, stressed the importance of collaboration among judicial stakeholders, including the Sierra Leone Correctional Service, the Sierra Leone Police, the Law Officers’ Department, Legal Aid, jurors, witnesses, and complainants. He emphasized the need for diligence and efficiency to ensure timely adjudication of cases within the scheduled period.
Paramount Chief (PC) Sangor Korgbende Kaimachiandeh of Gbense Chiefdom commended the Judiciary’s efforts in expanding judicial services despite resource limitations. He highlighted the broader national scope of the initiative, noting that similar sessions have already started in Magburaka, with Kambia and Pujehun scheduled to begin on February 27. He also referenced a recent meeting between Kono District Paramount Chiefs and the Chief Justice, where the latter reiterated his commitment to ensuring efficient and equitable justice delivery nationwide.
