By Abass Jalloh
Member of Parliament for the main opposition All People's Congress party representing Constituency 066 in Karene district, Mohamed Bangura, and the Chairperson of the party in Tonkolili district, Yabom Sesay, have each been granted a five hundred thousand Leone (NLe 500,000) bail following five counts charges levied against them.
The bail condition levied was that each accused should have a surety 40 year-old and over and with a property valued three hundred and fifty thousand Leones (NLe 350,000), and proof of utility bills.
Presiding Magistrate Mark Ngegba at the Pademba Road Court No.1 in Freetown yesterday 15 September granted the bail after both lead defense lawyers, Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara and Brima Koroma, renewed application for the accused person, especially after it was reported that Bangura complained of ill health.
The prosecution was expected to lead in its fourth witness following the testimony and cross-examination of the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) and Regional Commander for North-east, Gabriel Tommy, and two others.
However, earlier in the hearing yesterday, Prosecuting Lawyer, Yusuf Isaac Sesay, informed the court that they were “constrained in having their witness” available because they reside in the provinces, and requested for an adjournment.
The defense counsels responded that they would not object to the said request, regarding and considering the circumstances put forward by the prosecution.
Court records stated that on Saturday 11th June 2022 at Mathora village in Kholifa Rowala chiefdom in Tonkolili district, Bangura assaulted Tommy while the senior police officer was executing his duty.
On count two, they were accused of using insulting words against Tommy in order for him to commit breach of peace.
Count three says they intimidated him, threatening to hit him with their vehicle, while count four and five stated that they behaved in a riotous manner and obstructed him while he was executing his duty.
The matter continues on the 29th September 2022.
Copyright © 2022 Politico Online (16/09/22)
