In a significant legal development, the Legal Aid Board has stepped in to represent ten individuals facing charges of manslaughter at the Kambia Magistrate Court, presided over by Magistrate George B. Samai.
The accused, consisting of eight women and two men, are implicated in the deaths of two teenage girls allegedly resulting from their initiation into the Bondo Society. Among the accused are Mabinty Kamara, Nendewa Bangura, Binti Bangura, Barlay Turay, Seray Kargbo, Marie Kargbo, Alusine Bangura and Ishmael Sesay, all hailing from Tonko Limba chiefdom.
Legal representation for the accused is being provided by Counsel Mohamed Korie, the Legal Aid Board’s National Supervisor and Resident Counsel for Port Loko and Kambia districts. Despite efforts for bail, their application was rejected for the third time after thorough cross-examination of the prosecution witnesses on Tuesday, March 19, 2024.
In parallel proceedings, the Legal Aid Board has successfully secured the release of thirty-two individuals across separate Magistrate Court sessions held in Kono and Freetown between January and March 2024.
In Freetown, three individuals, namely Mohamed Alhaji Kamara, Jacob J. Brima, and Lamin Conteh, were discharged by Magistrate Wilbril Hamida Moira John of Court No. 7. These individuals had been standing trial on larceny charges and were released due to lack of prosecution following an application by Legal Aid Counsel, Bankole C.E. Morgan.
Addressing those released in Freetown, the Executive Director of the Legal Aid Board, Ms. Fatmata Claire Carlton-Hanciles, emphasized the importance of staying away from criminal activities, urging them to be law-abiding citizens and contribute positively to their communities.
Expressing gratitude on behalf of his fellow beneficiaries, Mohamed Alhaji Kamara commended the Legal Aid Board for their support and affirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and abiding by the law.
Meanwhile, in Kono, twenty-nine individuals including Isaac Osabutey, Peter Ngauja, Tamba Ngaineh, and Komba Manga, were discharged on separate files by Magistrate Joseph Toby. These individuals had been facing charges of sexual penetration and were represented by Counsel Alpha O. Kamara.
The Legal Aid Board continues its dedication to ensuring legal representation for the poor and vulnerable in the courts, reaffirming its commitment to justice and fairness in the legal system.
