By: Edrie Caleb John
In a recent ruling, Magistrate Santigie Bangura of Pademba Road Court No.2 committed Pastor Fatoma Tommy Jusu to stand trial at the High Court. Pastor Jusu was charged with one count of operating a private security company without a valid license, contrary to Section 31(8) of the National Security and Central Intelligence Act 2023.
According to prosecution witness testimony, Pastor Jusu admitted to operating Southern Lion Security and Logistics Services, which employed over 30 guards deployed across various locations in Freetown. However, officials at the Office of National Security had no record of the company holding the requisite license.
In his judgment, Magistrate Bangura summarized evidence indicating Pastor Jusu managed security operations and recruited staff for the company. While the case at the lower court determines only whether there is a prima facie case, the Magistrate ruled testimony sufficiently established the core elements of the offense.
Defense counsel Chernor Kamara applied for bail, but this was denied due consideration of public interest factors. As a result, Pastor Jusu was committed to stand trial at the High Court to fully determine the merits of the case.
The ruling demonstrates the authorities’ commitment to implementing regulatory frameworks governing private security firms. It also highlights the critical oversight role of Magistrates in evaluating evidence at the preliminary stage and committing accused persons where appropriate.
