By Saio Marrah
A Correctional Service officer in Freetown has told the High Court that the eighth accused in the ongoing treason trial has been admitted to hospital for treatment and could not appear for trial on Thursday 22nd February.
The officer presented a medical report in respect of Bai Mahmoud Bangura. Justice Komba Kamanda then announced that he couldn’t continue the matter and adjourned proceedings.
Earlier, the 12th accused, Abdul Sorie Hassan Kamara complained to the court that for the past three weeks, Correctional Service officers have refused requests from his family to visit him. He said the officers told his relatives that a court order is required to facilitate such access.
Recalling his initial orders regarding allowing visitors, Justice Kamanda noted that he had ordered for lawyers to be given unfettered access to their clients, but that for family members, the correctional service should follow laid down procedures at the Correctional Centre.
He further called on defence lawyers to make an application with an affidavit indicating their concerns to allow the Correctional Service to reply to what he called serious allegations.
Lawyer Ady Macauley, representing the third accused, told the court that the laid down procedures at the Correctional Centre were discriminatory. He said while the officers grant access to people visiting other prisoners, all those facing treason charges are denied that opportunity.
The lead state prosecutor, AJM Bockarie agreed with the judge that an affidavit should be filed.
The 12 accused persons including Amadu Koita Makalo are before the court for treason, misprision of treason, harbouring, and unlawful wearing of military uniform and other related treason offences.
The case resumes on Monday 26th February 2024.
Copyright © 2024 Politico (26/02/24)
