In a recent development at Freetown’s Pademba Road Court No. 2, a British national and three other individuals were each granted bail set at 1 billion Leones.
The court proceedings, held on August 7, 2024, revolved around allegations of embezzlement involving a 75-carat diamond.
The accused, Jihad Basma, a 54-year-old British businessman, alongside two miners, Sheku Kobba (49), also known as ‘ID Card,’ and Tamba Lebbie (28), appeared before Magistrate Santigie Bangura. The trio faces serious charges including conspiracy to defraud, embezzlement, and receiving stolen goods.
According to the prosecution, the alleged offences took place between May 20 and May 26, 2024, in Woryonteh Village, Kamara Chiefdom, Kono District.
The diamond, owned by Benjamin Meter, was reportedly embezzled by Kobba and Lebbie, with Basma being accused of knowingly receiving the stolen gem.
During the hearing, State Prosecutor Yusif Isaac Sesay requested a brief adjournment to prepare for the formal arraignment of the accused.
Defence counsel Jessie M. Jengo, arguing for bail, presented a medical report for Basma, citing health concerns, and assured the court that all the accused individuals resided within the jurisdiction and had credible sureties.
Magistrate Bangura granted bail, stipulating that each accused must provide two sureties, each in the amount of 1 billion Leones. The sureties are required to be residents of the Western Area, with either property ownership or business capital equivalent to the bail amount. Additionally, they must submit bank statements, property title deeds, and utility bills as part of the bail conditions.
The bail decision is pending approval by the Master and Registrar of the High Court of Sierra Leone.
The case is scheduled to resume on August 14, 2024.
