By Emma Black

Samuel Benjamin Moiba and Alfred Karim Koroma, both sailors, appeared before Magistrate Sahr Kekura at Pademba Road Court No. 1 in Freetown, facing two charges: conspiracy contrary to law and larceny under Section 2 of the Larceny Act 1916.

The charge sheet alleges that on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at Sir Samuel Lewis Road, Aberdeen, in Freetown’s Western Area, the accused, along with unknown others conspired to commit larceny. On the same date and location, they allegedly stole a black suitcase, a grey Dell laptop, a black Samsung A23 mobile phone, a stethoscope set, and assorted items valued at 124,800 New Leones, property of Dr. Sherif Emil, while in the custody of sea coach Express management.

Inspector Kadie M. Taylor called the first prosecution witness, Micah Tanimu, General Manager at Seacoach express and a technician. Tanimu identified the accused as sailors and recounted the events of February 9, 2025. He testified that at around 10 p.m., he received a call from the Mercy Ship coordinator reporting missing luggage, advising patience, Tanimu promised to investigate.

At the office, he reviewed CCTV footage, which showed the first accused, Moiba, moving from the terminal to the car park with three bags, setting one, the allegedly stolen bag, aside, confronting Moiba, Tanimu said the sailor initially denied involvement. After showing him the footage in the CCTV room, Moiba admitted his actions and implicated Koroma regarding the missing bag’s whereabouts. Tanimu summoned the police without further discussion with Koroma, handing both accused over to officers. The CCTV footage, transferred to a memory stick, was produced and tendered as Exhibit A. Tanimu later gave a statement to the police.

Defense counsel S. Smart Esq. cross-examined Tanimu and renewed previous bail applications for both accused, Magistrate Kekura, citing the severity of the charges, denied bail and remanded Moiba and Koroma to the male correctional facility in Freetown, the case was adjourned to April 11, 2025.