BY SAIDU JALLOH | DAILY SCOPE REPORTER
FREETOWN
Two legal practitioners have been remanded in custody by Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 1 over allegations of defrauding a businessman of three Toyota 4Runner vehicles valued at US$114,000.
Maurice Sesay and John Mans made their first appearance before Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah on Monday, August 3, 2026, on charges of conspiracy to defraud and obtaining property by false pretences. The court denied their bail application and ordered that they remain in custody pending the production of prosecution witnesses.
According to the charge sheet, the accused persons allegedly conspired with unknown accomplices between November 1 and November 30, 2023, at Harding Sesay and Partners Law Firm, No. 49 Dundas Street, Freetown, to defraud Bockarie Conteh.
State Prosecutor Y.I. Sesay told the court that the lawyers obtained three Toyota 4Runner vehicles from the complainant after allegedly assuring him that payment would be made within 30 working days. The prosecution contends that the representations made to secure the vehicles were false and were intended to facilitate fraud. The prosecutor also informed the court that disclosure had been made to the defence in accordance with Section 112 of the Criminal Procedure Act and requested an adjournment to enable the prosecution to prepare for trial.
Defence counsel J.M. Jengo applied for bail under Section 76(1)(c) of the Criminal Procedure Act, arguing that both accused persons are residents within the court’s jurisdiction, have stable employment, and have practised law for over 11 years. Counsel further appealed to the court to consider their professional backgrounds and personal circumstances, including claims that continued detention could cause hardship. He also informed the court that the first accused has health concerns that should be taken into account.
After considering submissions from both the prosecution and defence, Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah refused bail and ordered that the two lawyers remain in custody. The matter has been adjourned to August 10, 2026, for further hearing.
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