By: Edrie Caleb John
In a significant ruling on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Magistrate Santigie Bangura at Pademba Road Court No. 2 declared Ibrahim Marrah not guilty of theft charges, acquitting him of all allegations.
As Marrah stood in the dock, raising his hands toward the heavens in a gesture of prayer, the Magistrate addressed the single count of larceny against him, which contravened Section 2 of the Larceny Act of 1916.
The particulars of the offense stated that on July 18, 2024, at No. 2 Yomie Cole Avenue, off Leicester Road, Freetown, Marrah allegedly stole 62 lengths of half-inch iron rods, each valued at Le 160, totaling Le 9,920, the property of Joyce Johnson Nee Davies.
However, in his judgment, Magistrate Bangura noted that while the accused was seen in the complainant’s compound, no witnesses testified to seeing him carrying the iron rods outside. The Magistrate emphasized that a case must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt to hold the accused accountable.
Marrah maintained his innocence, stating that he entered the compound to call a tenant. The Magistrate pointed out the lack of substantial evidence from the prosecution, questioning how one individual could carry away 62 lengths of iron rods.
In a decisive statement, Magistrate Bangura concluded, “The prosecution failed to provide substantial evidence, and in my discretion, how can an individual cart away 62 lengths of iron rods? Therefore, he is not guilty of the offense alleged.”
As a result, Marrah was acquitted and discharged of all charges, marking a significant moment in the courtroom.
