By Mamajah Jalloh
A 33-year-old mason, Alie Kamara, was sentenced to 12 months in prison for the theft of iron rods after appearing before Magistrate Sahr Kekura at Pademba Road Court No. 1 on Thursday, February 27, 2025. Kamara was charged with larceny contrary to Section 2 of the Larceny Act of 1916.
According to the charge, on Saturday, February 8, 2024, Kamara stole 31 lengths of 5/8 inch iron rods and 11 lengths of 1/2 inch iron rods, valued at 12,045 Leones. The iron rods, which belonged to Fatima Reider, were taken from a property located opposite the American Embassy in the Mountain Rural District, Freetown.
When the charge was read to Kamara, he pleaded guilty. Prosecutor Sergeant 8975 Bangura I.S confirmed that there were no previous criminal records against the accused. Kamara, who was not legally represented, asked the magistrate to show mercy in his sentencing.
Magistrate Kekura, acknowledging that Kamara had pleaded guilty and spared the court unnecessary delays, decided to sentence him to 12 months in the male correctional facility. However, the accused was given the option of paying a fine of 1,000 Leones instead of serving the sentence.
The case highlights the seriousness of property theft and the judicial process in ensuring justice is served.