By Mamajah Jalloh
Three individuals, Amadu Barrie (18), Kadijatu Ibrahim Sow (20), and Mariana Barrie, appeared before Magistrate Santigie Bangura of Pademba Road Court No.2 on Monday, January 13, 2025, to face charges related to an alleged fraud scheme. The three are charged with Conspiracy to Defraud, Obtaining Money by False Pretence, and Causing Money to Be Paid, all in violation of the Larceny Act of 1916.
The charge sheet states that between October and November 2024, at Grafton, Freetown, in the Western Area of Sierra Leone, the accused conspired with others unknown to defraud several victims. The victims—Mohamed Sallieu Jakitay, Alusine Bah, Umaru Barrie, Ibrahim Barrie, Sulaman Jagitay, and Alpha Jalloh—were allegedly tricked into paying a total of Two Hundred and Thirty-Eight Thousand and Fifty Leones (Le 238,050.00). The accused promised to provide Dubai visas and facilitate the travel of their children, including Isatu Barrie, Habibatu Jagitay, Amadu Jagitay, Sulaiman Jagitay, Abdul Jalloh, and Salaiman Jagitay. The charges suggest the accused knew the promises were false.
When the charges were read and explained, all three accused individuals pleaded not guilty to the offenses. Sergeant 3379 Balley, the lead prosecutor, requested a short adjournment due to the absence of the complainant in court.
As the accused did not have legal representation at this stage, Magistrate Bangura declined to grant bail, citing the seriousness of the charges, and remanded them into custody. The case was adjourned to January 21, 2025, for further proceedings.
