By: Edrie Caleb John
In a final appearance before Magistrate Santigie Bangura at Court No. 2, Pademba Road, Freetown, driver Ibrahim Marrah has closed his case regarding an alleged theft and now awaits a ruling from the bench.
The accused was presented with three options for testimony: rely on his police statement, explain his case in the dock with limited impact, or stand in the witness box to provide a sworn statement using the Quran or Bible. Marrah chose the latter option and proceeded to testify.
Ibrahim Marrah, who resides in Immat, explained that he was operating a TVS motorbike for the complainant, identified as Mamie Johnson, while assisting her with various household chores. He recounted an incident on a rainy Thursday morning when he helped another driver, Mr. Lahai, with luggage. In gratitude, he received a token of 20 Leones.
Later that day, contractor Mr. Samura requested his assistance with boards for a worksite. However, when Marrah returned to collect food, the complainant accused him of stealing iron ore from her compound. He denied the allegation, stating that no one was present to corroborate the claim. Subsequently, he was taken to the police station, and the matter was transferred to court.
Marrah, who was not represented by legal counsel, faced prosecution from Police Constable 18235 Thoronkka Kk. He has been charged with one count of larceny contrary to Section 2 of the Larceny Act of 1916.
The particulars of the offense allege that on Thursday, July 18, 2024, at No. 2 Yomie Cole Avenue off Leicester Road, Freetown, Marrah stole 62 lengths of half-inch iron rods, each valued at 160 Leones, totaling an estimated value of 9,920 Leones, the property of Joyce Johnson Nee Davies.
The Magistrate has adjourned the matter for a ruling on October 9, 2024.
