By Mamajah Jalloh
Freetown, Sierra Leone – Luke Foromo Bereteh, a 46-year-old Guinean businessman, appeared before Magistrate Santigie Bangura at Pademba Road Court No.2 on Tuesday, 19th November 2024, facing two counts of conspiracy to defraud and obtaining money by false pretenses.
The charges stem from events between January 2020 and October 2024, where Bereteh, along with others unknown, allegedly conspired to defraud Ishmael Kondeh. The accused reportedly misled Kondeh into providing $300,000 (approximately 720 million Leones), claiming the funds would be used for gold mining operations, a claim the prosecution asserts was false.
Upon the reading of the charges, Bereteh pleaded not guilty. Prosecutor Assistant Superintendent of Police Sorie Conteh requested a brief adjournment, citing the absence of a key witness.
In a significant development, Magistrate Bangura granted Bereteh bail in the substantial sum of one billion Leones, with two sureties who must each be property owners in the Western Area, with properties valued at no less than half a billion Leones. Additionally, each surety must hold a bank account containing at least half a billion Leones. The bail is subject to approval by the Deputy Assistant Registrar.
The case has been adjourned to 4th December 2024 for further proceedings.
