By Josephine sesay

The High Court in Bo has sentenced eight convicted armed robbers to a combined 560 years in prison, with each convict receiving a 70-year sentence.

The sentencing was handed down by Hon. Justice Francis Bangs Kamara following the conclusion of the criminal session of the High Court in Bo.

The case initially commenced in the Lower Court before being committed to the High Court for trial.

All eight convicts pleaded guilty to the charges brought against them.

During mitigation, defence counsel J.J. Harris appealed to the court to consider the personal circumstances of the accused.

He described them as young men and first-time offenders who, having faced the consequences of their actions, had learned their lessons and would not reoffend.

Despite the plea for leniency, Justice Kamara imposed lengthy custodial sentences, underscoring the seriousness with which the court views armed robbery and its impact on communities.

In his remarks, the judge stressed his determination to protect residents across the Southern Region from the threat of armed robbery. He said people should be able to go about their daily lives and sleep peacefully without fear of criminal attacks

Justice Kamara emphasized that he would make use of every available legal means to combat armed robbery, with the aim of either eliminating the menace or significantly reducing its prevalence in the region.

The sentences come amid growing concerns about public safety and the impact of armed robbery on communities.

The court’s decision is being viewed as a strong warning to individuals involved in violent crime that such offences will attract severe consequences

The case also highlights the role of the judiciary in addressing serious criminal offences and strengthening public confidence in the justice system.

As the High Court’s criminal session in Bo comes to a close, Justice Kamara’s remarks have reinforced the court’s stated commitment to protecting residents and ensuring that those convicted of serious crimes face the consequences provided under the law.

The sentencing has therefore sent a clear message across the Southern Region: armed robbery will be treated as a serious threat to public safety, and the courts will take firm action against those found guilty.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 24th August 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)