By Mohamed Mansaray in Kenema

Five accused persons namely Umaro Sama, Juana Kallon aka chapper, Moray Vandy, Mohamed Kallon aka gun play and Issa Lahai have been arraigned before Justice Abubakarr Sannoh of the High Court in Kenema on three counts: conspiracy, murder and receiving stolen goods.

It could be recalled that on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, the first accused Umaro Sama with unknown persons, allegedly murdered Salim Alie Dayeck, a popular Lebanese business man at No. 26 Hangha Road in Kenema. The fifth accused person, Issa Lahai was charged to court for receiving stolen goods to wit grinding machine [property of the deceased] from Mohamed Kallon, one of the alleged murderer of Salim Alie Dayeck.

The accused pleaded guilty and begged for mercy. Defence counsel, Patrick Kamara of Legal Aid Board in Kenema pleaded with Justice Abubakarr Sannoh to tamper Justice with mercy. In his plea mitigation, Patrick Kamara told the court that his client is a first time offender and didn’t waste the time of the court. In his humble mitigation, Mr. Kamara told the court that Issa Lahai was a married young man with two children. He further said that the convict grinds cassava leaves for his survival.

Having heard the plea from the convict and the plea mitigation of the defence counsel, Patrick Kamara, the Judge realised that the convict, Issa Lahai did not benefit from the crime that he committed. Justice Abubakarr Sannoh therefore cautioned and discharged the convict. The matter was adjourned to January 16, 2025 for further hearing.