By Mamajah Jalloh
Freetown, Sierra Leone – Komba Kaminty, a labourer, appeared before Magistrate Santigie Bangura at Pademba Road Court No. 2 on Monday, December 2, 2024, to face two charges of obtaining money by false pretenses, contrary to Section 32(1) of the Larceny Act of 1916.
The prosecution alleges that between February and April 2024, while in Brazil, Kaminty defrauded two individuals, obtaining significant sums of money under the pretense of facilitating travel arrangements and visa procurement.
In the first count, Kaminty is accused of obtaining $5,000 (equivalent to NLe120,000) from Isatu Bangura, through Mamoud Jalloh, both Sierra Leoneans based in the United States. He allegedly promised to secure visas and arrange travel from Sierra Leone to Brazil for Bangura and her relatives, Yusuf, Fatmata, and Bai Bangura, knowing the claims to be false.
The second count alleges that Kaminty obtained an additional $2,000 (equivalent to NLe48,000) from Agnes Wotto, through Christian Nicol, under similar false pretenses, with a promise to arrange her travel to Brazil.
The accused pleaded not guilty to both charges. Assistant Superintendent of Police Sorie Conteh, the state prosecutor, requested an adjournment, citing the absence of key witnesses.
Defense counsel C. Davies applied for bail on behalf of Kaminty, arguing that the accused is a Sierra Leonean resident who poses no flight risk or threat to prosecution witnesses. He assured the court that Kaminty would comply with all court directives and appear for subsequent hearings.
Magistrate Bangura granted bail to Kaminty in the sum of Le180,000, with strict conditions. The bail requires two sureties, both of whom must reside in Freetown, be employed, and operate established businesses valued at no less than Le100,000 each. The bail conditions must also be approved by the Master and Assistant Deputy Registrar.
The case has been adjourned to December 11, 2024, for further hearings. The court will review evidence and hear from witnesses as the prosecution seeks to prove its case against Kaminty.
