By: Joseph Momoh, Daily Scope Reporter
A Freetown youth was remanded in custody on Tuesday after appearing before Pademba Road Magistrates’ Court on allegations of fraudulent conversion involving US$12,000.
Osman Japtay faces one count of fraudulent conversion, contrary to Section 20(1)(iv)(b) of the Larceny Act 1916. He was not asked to enter a plea as the matter is still at the committal stage.
Presiding over the proceedings, Magistrate Jah heard that the alleged offence occurred on 21st April 2026 on Lumley Street, Freetown. Prosecutors told the court that Japtay allegedly converted the sum of US$12,000 — equivalent to about Le 288,000 — to his own use. The money, the court heard, was entrusted to him by Abdul Rahman Barrier for onward delivery to Mohamed Bluba Jagitay.
Testifying as the second prosecution witness, Detective Police Constable 17649 Brima Kargbo of the Economic and Financial Fraud Unit said the case was transferred from Kissy Police Station to CID Headquarters on 14th May 2026.
DPC Kargbo tendered several exhibits, including Japtay’s voluntary caution statement and a police progress report. He further informed the court that the accused was formally charged on 19th May 2026.
Under cross-examination, the witness affirmed that the investigation was properly conducted and that the documents presented were authentic.
Magistrate Jah denied bail, noting the seriousness of the alleged financial offence.
The case was adjourned to 9th July 2026 for continuation of committal proceedings.
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