Kenema, Sierra Leone — A 26-year-old man accused of carrying out a violent attack on a Catholic priest in Kailahun District has been remanded in custody following his first court appearance in Kenema.
The suspect, Ansu Bockarie, also known as “Bobson 5-0,” appeared before Magistrate Court No. 1 on Monday, 2 February 2026.
The proceedings were presided over by Magistrate Hadiru Daboh. Bockarie, an unemployed resident of Pendembu Town, was formally charged with five serious offences linked to the alleged incident.
The charges include attempted robbery with aggravation, house breaking under Section 27(2) of the Larceny Act of 1916, and multiple counts of wounding and causing grievous bodily harm with intent, contrary to Sections 18 and 20 of the Offences Against the Person Act of 1861.
Prosecution’s Case
Presenting the facts, Prosecuting Officer Sgt. 10734 David Idriss told the court that the alleged attack took place on Tuesday, 27 January 2026, at the Saint Mary’s Parish Mission House in the Vaama Section of Pendembu Town, Upper Bambara Chiefdom.
According to the prosecution, Bockarie allegedly forced his way into the residence of Reverend Father James Joshua Jamiru while armed with a shovel, with the intention of committing a felony. During the incident, the priest reportedly sustained serious injuries after being assaulted by the accused.
Police tendered several pieces of evidence, including a medical report detailing the victim’s injuries, nine witness statements, and exhibits said to have been used during the attack. These included an old shovel, a machete, and the accused’s charged statement. The prosecution relied on Section 112(b), paragraph two, of the Criminal Procedure Act of 1964.
Court Ruling
The court declined to grant bail and ordered that Bockarie be remanded at the Sierra Leone Correctional Centre in Kenema.
The case has been adjourned to 10 February 2026, when further proceedings are expected to continue.
