AYV News, March 19, 2025
In a tragic incident highlighting the grave consequences of domestic violence, Santigie Kamara, a thirty-five-year-old officer of the Operational Support Division (OSD), was formally charged in court with the alleged murder of his brother, Francis Amara Kanneh. The incident occurred during an altercation at a commercial establishment in Freetown.
Kamara appeared before Magistrate Sahr Kekura at PadembaRoad Court No. 1, facing a murder charge. The alleged offense transpired on January 19, 2025, at the 555 Lorry Park in Waterloo, located in the western rural district of Freetown. During the court proceedings, the charge was formally presented and articulated, but Kamara did not enter a plea.
Sergeant 9939 Mohamed Lahai, leading the prosecution, presented witness Maseray Nallah, a proprietor who identified Kamara as an acquaintance of her family. Nallah confirmed her familiarity with the deceased, Kanneh, noting their close familial relationship.
On the day of the incident, Nallah was present at her establishment when Kamara arrived and requested a beverage, while Kanneh was also present. After fulfilling Kamara’s request, Nallah asked for payment, to which Kamara replied that he would return.
Upon his subsequent return, Kamara reportedly confronted Kanneh on the premises, stating his intention to speak with him.
Nallah testified that she heard Kamara discharge his firearm, fatally wounding Kanneh with three shots. The event caused widespread panic in the establishment, and Nallah sought assistance as the victim suffered significant blood loss. In the ensuing chaos, items were stolen from her business. Later, Kanneh’s sister retrieved his body, and officers from the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) arrived to record statements. Kanneh was buried at Kankely Cemetery. Nallahwas cross-examined by defense counsel W.C. Oluba.
Following the hearing, Magistrate Kekura denied bail to Kamara, ordering his remand to the male correctional facility in Freetown due to the severity of the charges. The case has been adjourned until tomorrow March 20, 2025.
