AYV News, August 20, 2024
A British national, alongside three others, has been granted bail by a Sierra Leonean court in the sum of 2 billion leones each, following accusations of embezzling a 264-carat diamond valued at approximately $42.2 million USD (1,003,200,000 Leones).
The incident, which allegedly took place between May 20th and 26th, 2024, in Moryonfeh village, Kamara chiefdom, Kono district, has led to serious charges of conspiracy and fraudulent embezzlement against the accused.
Those implicated include 49-year-old miner Sheku Kabba, also known as “ID Card,” 25-year-old miner Tamba Lebbie, 28-year-old miner Sahr Lebbie, and 54-year-old businessman and British national Jihad Basma.
The prosecution claims that the group conspired to defraud Benjamin Merer of the valuable diamond, fully aware that it had been stolen.
Initially, the accused faced charges related to a 75-carat diamond, but these were withdrawn in favor of the new charges concerning the larger 264-carat stone.
During the court proceedings, State Prosecutor Yusif Isaac Sesay requested the acquittal and discharge of the original charges, which was granted by Magistrate Bangura. The state then sought an adjournment to continue with the new charges, citing the absence of one of the accused.
Defense counsel Jessie M. Jengo argued for bail, which was contested by the State Prosecutor, who emphasized the gravity of the offense and suggested stringent bail conditions if granted.
Magistrate Bangura, expressing concern over the absence of the third accused, ultimately decided to grant bail to all four individuals.
The bail was set at 2 billion Leones each, with specific conditions, including the provision of two sureties who must be property owners, with relevant title deeds. The accused are also required to surrender their passports and other travel documents.
To further ensure compliance, Magistrate Bangura ordered that the Master and Registrar notify the Department of Immigration, barring the accused from leaving Sierra Leone. Additionally, one of the sureties must maintain a bank account with a minimum balance of 1 billion Leones, with daily statements signed and stamped by the respective bank authorities. The accused must also swear affidavits affirming their commitment to remain within the jurisdiction.
The bail conditions are pending approval by the Master and Registrar of the High Court of Sierra Leone.