Alhaji Issa Kamara, a 23-year-old man, has been remanded at the Male Correctional Centre in Freetown after appearing before Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah at Pademba Road Court No. 1 on a larceny charge. He is accused of stealing 10 metres of copper-plated electric cable belonging to the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA). The alleged theft occurred on September 7, 2026, at Siaka Stevens Street in the Western Area of Freetown.
According to the particulars of the offence, the cable was valued at Le1,500 per metre, bringing the total value of the alleged stolen property to Le15,000. The charge was brought under Section 2 of the Larceny Act 1916. The prosecution was represented by Inspector Kadie Taylor, who informed the court that the accused had been served with a copy of the case and inquiry file.
Kamara confirmed that he had received the documents. However, the accused was not legally represented during the proceedings. When the charge was read and explained to him in court, Kamara pleaded not guilty. The court proceedings were straightforward, with the prosecution presenting the case against Kamara.
Following the hearing, Magistrate Jah refused bail and ordered Kamara to be remanded at the Male Correctional Centre. The matter has been adjourned to October 8, 2026, for further proceedings. This decision was made after considering the facts of the case and the severity of the offence.
The Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) is a critical institution in Sierra Leone, responsible for providing electricity to the country. The theft of its property can have significant consequences for the nation's energy infrastructure. The court took this into consideration when making its decision.
The case highlights the issue of theft in Sierra Leone, particularly in the capital city of Freetown. The country has been working to improve its infrastructure and economy, but incidents like this can hinder progress. The judiciary has taken a stance against such crimes, as evident in the court's decision to remand Kamara.
The case will continue on October 8, 2026, and it remains to be seen what the outcome will be. Kamara's fate will be determined by the court, and he may face penalties if found guilty. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting the law and the consequences of engaging in criminal activities.
Key points
- A 23-year-old man was remanded in prison for allegedly stealing 10 metres of copper-plated electric cable belonging to EDSA in Freetown.
- The accused, Alhaji Issa Kamara, pleaded not guilty to the charge of larceny.
- The court refused bail and adjourned the matter to October 8, 2026, for further proceedings.
