By Emma Black
Newton Johnson, an Italian-Nigerian national, was ordered to stand trial in Sierra Leone’s High Court on Monday, April 14, 2025, following his alleged possession of cocaine at Freetown International Airport. Magistrate Santigie Bangura of Pademba Road Court No. 2 ruled the evidence sufficient to escalate the case, a move underscoring Sierra Leone’s crackdown on drug trafficking amid a surge in airport seizures.
Johnson faces two charges under Section 7(b) of the National Drugs Control Act of 2008 possession and collection of prohibited drugs without lawful authority. Prosecutors allege that on November 9, 2024, he was caught with two compressed parcels of cocaine hidden in his luggage during a routine check at the airport. The discovery, part of a 15% rise in drug busts in 2024, per Sierra Leone Police records, has heightened scrutiny on smuggling routes through the country.
In court, the prosecution presented three witnesses, including an exhibit clerk who displayed the seized cocaine. “The testimonies align, building a solid case,” Magistrate Bangura stated, reviewing the evidence. He deemed Johnson fit for High Court trial, where penalties could include up to seven years per charge if convicted.
When asked if he would testify or call witnesses, Johnson remained reserved. I’ll follow my lawyer’s advice, he said, standing before the packed courtroom. Bangura denied bail, citing the case’s severity, and remanded Johnson until his trial, expected within weeks. Legal observers note the decision reflects Sierra Leone’s tough stance on drugs, often linked to regional trafficking networks.
The case strikes a chord in Freetown, where drug-related crime fuels public concern, these busts protect our youth, said trader Fatmata Sesay, who sees addiction rising in her community. Airport worker Mohamed Kamara, part of the screening team, felt proud, we’re guarding our borders, yet, activist Aminata Conteh warned, “Catching one dealer isn’t enough follow the supply chain.”
Sierra Leone’s fight against drugs faces hurdles, with underfunded agencies and porous borders complicating efforts. The National Drugs Control Agency reports cocaine seizures doubling since 2022, often destined for Europe via West Africa. Johnson’s trial could set a precedent, testing judicial resolve to deter traffickers.
Public sentiment blends hope and urgency, Justice must be swift but fair, said student Ibrahim Bangura, echoing calls for transparency, community leaders, like Imam Abdul Koroma, urge prevention alongside punishment, pushing for youth programs to curb drug allure, he learned Magistrate said he has looked at the entire evidence and the accused is fit to stand trial at the High Court for further trial.
He therefore asked the accused if he would like to testify at the high Court and if he would like to call witnesses to testify on his behalf, accused Johnny said that he will wait on the instructions of his lawyer, he said send to the High Court for further trial by the Magistrate without bail.
