Theft at Defence for Children International
By Fatima Sesay
Ibrahim Kamara, a security guard, was remanded in prison on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, by Magistrate Santigie Bangura of Pademba Road Court No. 2 for allegedly stealing items valued over thirty-five thousand New Leones from Defence for Children International. Kamara was arraigned on two charges: Office Breaking and Larceny, contrary to Section 26(1) of the Larceny Act of 1916, and Malicious Damage, contrary to Section 51 of the Malicious Damage Act of 1861. According to police reports, on Saturday, February 1, 2025, in Tengbeh Town, Freetown, Kamara allegedly broke into the office of Defence for Children International with the intent to steal. He reportedly stole five thousand five hundred New Leones, three pairs of slippers, and maliciously damaged a cabinet, a ceiling, and other assorted items valued at thirty-five thousand and sixty-five New Leones, all property of the organization, which was in the custody of Sarah Saffa. The accused pleaded not guilty when the charges were read and explained to him. In his testimony, John Tarawally, the Finance Officer at Defence for Children International, identified Kamara as a security guard at the office. He recalled receiving a call from the complainant, Sarah Saffa, on February 1, 2025, informing him of the incident. Upon arriving at the office, he observed that the ceiling of the Director’s office was damaged. Additionally, the CCTV camera and the laptop used for monitoring the footage were missing, along with other office items. Tarawally advised Saffa to report the matter to the police, which led to an investigation by the Congo Cross Police Station. He also provided a statement to the authorities regarding the incident. Kamara, who was not legally represented, cross-examined the witness himself. Magistrate Bangura denied bail and remanded the accused to the male correctional facility in Freetown. The case was adjourned to April 7, 2025, for continuation.
