By: Edrie Caleb John
In the ongoing treason trial, Detective Sergeant Solomon Amadu presented the statements of Thaimu Bangura, the second accused, at the Pademba Road Court No. 2 before Magistrate Santigie Bangura yesterday, Thursday 29th August 2024.
The case involves two charges: treason and misprision of treason. According to the police, Bangura and Captain Alie Badara allegedly conspired to overthrow the government of Sierra Leone through unlawful means between June 24, 2023, and June 29, 2024.
Additionally, Captain Badara was accused of operating a WhatsApp group titled “Movement to the Restoration of Democracy” from June 2023 to March 2024, which was used to plan and coordinate the attempted coup. The accused are also charged with conspiring with unknown individuals to stage a violent protest as a cover for their unlawful plot.
Furthermore, Bangura is accused of failing to report the conspiracy, knowing that Captain Senessie, Captain John Conteh, and others were preparing to overthrow the government, thereby committing misprision of treason.
During the trial, Sgt. Amadu, the second prosecution witness, testified that on April 21, 2024, he and Detective Inspector Abu Bakarr Kargbo obtained an initial interview statement from Bangura, which was suspended and resumed on April 24, 2024.
At the request of the defending lawyers, the presiding judge adjourned the matter to September 4, 2024.
