By: Tommy Sidikie
The Judiciary of Sierra Leone has launched a two-week court session in Mattru Jong, Bonthe District, marking the commencement of the October High Court Criminal Session. The session, presided over by Hon. Justice Abdulai M. Bangura (JSC), aims to address criminal cases in areas lacking Resident High Court Judges, as stipulated by the Criminal Procedure Act of 1965.
In his address to litigants and jurors, Justice Bangura highlighted the importance of timely justice for accused individuals, noting that prolonged delays in trials infringe on legal rights. He urged cooperation among all parties in the criminal justice system, including Law Officers, the Legal Aid Board, Police, and jurors, to ensure the smooth progression of cases and reduce backlogs.
The Bonthe session is currently handling 74 cases, encompassing serious offenses such as murder, manslaughter, sexual penetration, rape, robbery, and larceny. Among the accused is 36-year-old Amara Mbayo, who pleaded not guilty to charges of sexual penetration of a child, while several others admitted guilt to offenses ranging from larceny to wounding with intent.
State Counsel Ballah Sesay is leading the prosecution, with defense provided by Legal Aid Board lawyer Abu Kuntar Jawara. The sessions are expected to continue into next week, with significant progress anticipated on the pending cases.
