The crime of larceny has emerged as the most prevalent offense in the ongoing criminal session at the High Court in Pujehun District, marking the return of the court after a two-year hiatus. The February High Court Criminal Session commenced on February 28, 2025, with Honourable Justice Francis Banks-Kamara presiding over 43 cases, the majority of which are larceny-related.
The session, which began on February 27, 2025, includes a wide range of charges, such as sexual offenses, robbery with violence, attempted human trafficking and grievous bodily harm. Out of the 43 cases, 23 are related to larceny, highlighting the extent of this crime in the district. Among the other charges are one case of rape, eight sexual penetration cases and charges of wounding with intent.
In his opening address, Honourable Justice Francis Banks-Kamara emphasized the judiciary’s commitment to enhancing access to swift justice, especially in areas without resident judges. He praised the initiative of Chief Justice, Komba Kamanda, noting his bold leadership in facilitating the court’s return to Pujehun. Justice Francis Banks-Kamara urged residents to stay law-abiding, assuring them that the two-week session would be used efficiently to deliver justice.
Paramount Chief of Kpanga Chiefdom, Chief Ginah Salia, expressed gratitude to the judiciary for the thoughtful initiative of bringing justice closer to the people of Pujehun. He assured full support from local authorities for the smooth execution of the court proceedings.
Several accused persons were discharged during the session, including 24-year-old Alpha Massaquoi and Mohamed Wundu, who faced charges of wounding with intent. Other discharged individuals included Abdulai Jasil Sillah, who was cleared of charges of grievous bodily harm and Mohamed Massaquoi, who was discharged of killing animals with intent to steal.
Honourable Justice Francis Banks-Kamara handed down several convictions. Power-saw operator Idrissa Kargbo, 23, and Naffie Kamara were both sentenced to ten years in prison after pleading guilty to housebreaking and larceny. Moses Amara, 22, was sentenced to seven years for wounding with intent, while Lamin Tarawallie, 28, received a three-year sentence for housebreaking and larceny. Mustapha Sawanneh, 22, was sentenced to five years for larceny in a dwelling house.
The session also saw the prosecution, led by Senior State Counsel Augustine Sheku, alongside Defense Counsel, Jack Harris, from Legal Aid, present their cases.
Justice Francis Banks-Kamara reassured the people of Pujehun that the court would continue to work towards the expeditious resolution of cases, with the goal of ensuring verdicts are delivered within three months. He noted that many accused individuals were between the ages of 18 and 30 and urged the youth to avoid criminal behavior.
The session has been met with optimism from local leaders, with the representative of the Pujehun Correctional Centre, Augustine Songu, reporting concerns over overcrowding at the center. He urged the court to expedite hearings, as many inmates have been awaiting trial since 2023.
As the session progresses, residents and stakeholders hope the court’s return will restore faith in the judicial system and provide greater access to justice for the people of Pujehun.
This session is part of a broader initiative aimed at improving the delivery of justice and enhancing transparency in Sierra Leone’s legal system.
