By: Edrie Caleb John
On Wednesday, September 11, 2024, Magistrate Santigie Bangura at Court No. 2, Pademba Road, committed the treason trial of two accused persons, Alie Badara Kanu and Thaimu Bangura, to the High Court of Sierra Leone.
The accused persons faced two counts of Treason and Misprision of Treason, contravening the laws of Sierra Leone. Prosecuting Counsel Yusif Isaac Sesay submitted that the prosecution had proven its case against the accused persons, warranting a trial at the High Court.
During the preliminary investigation, three witnesses testified, producing evidence that was cross-examined by the defense counsel. The accused persons indicated they would lead evidence and call witnesses at the High Court.
Alie Badara Kanu claimed he was unconscious when arrested and when statements were obtained, and requested to change his statement at the High Court. Thaimu Bangura questioned the absence of a complainant who made allegations against him.
The particulars of the offense state that the accused persons engaged in preparations to overthrow the government by unlawful means between June 2023 and March 2024. They allegedly conspired with unknown persons to recruit Armed Forces personnel, Police Officers, and Ex-service men to overthrow the government through a WhatsApp group called Movement for the Restoration of Democracy (MRD).
