Freetown, Sierra Leone – The high-profile fraud case involving Admire Frances Bio-Jalloh, a prominent businesswoman and niece of President Julius Maada Bio, and her husband Dauda “Dausy” Jalloh, has been adjourned to Thursday, July 23, 2026, by Magistrate Mustapha Braima Jah at Magistrate Court No. 1 (Pademba Road Court).
The adjournment followed a procedural dispute during proceedings. Defense counsel cited Section 112(c)(I) of the Criminal Procedure Act of 2024 (Act No. 8 of 2024) in a submission related to cross-examination. Prosecutors objected, arguing that the cited provision was inapplicable to the application.
In the interest of fairness and justice, Magistrate Braima Jah ruled that the defense should be given an opportunity to refile using the appropriate legal provisions. This decision aligns with the spirit of the relatively new Criminal Procedure Act 2024, which emphasizes procedural safeguards, time limits on pretrial detention, and fair trial rights in Sierra Leone’s justice system.
Background of the Case
The couple faces multiple serious charges, including conspiracy to defraud, obtaining money by false pretences (under the Larceny Act 1916), and related offenses. Prosecutors allege that between August 10 and 14, 2025, at No. 1 DAI Drive, Mile 13, Freetown, Admire Bio-Jalloh and Dauda Jalloh, along with others, conspired to defraud Italian nationals Fanni Giuseppe and Alfio Siracusa.
The complainants reportedly paid over US$400,000 (various reports cite figures around $210,000–$435,000) for gold purchases, export taxes, and related services through what was presented as a licensed gold trading company, GAN Minerals Sierra Leone Limited. The victims allegedly received neither the gold nor refunds.
Admire Bio-Jalloh, often called “Mama of Freetown,” was arrested in mid-June 2026 and initially spent time in CID custody before being granted US$500,000 bail by the same magistrate on July 3, 2026. Her husband was declared wanted by police earlier in the investigation but has since appeared in court.
The case has drawn significant public attention due to the involvement of a presidential relative, allegations of using a legitimate gold and car business as a front, and the international dimension involving foreign investors. It highlights broader concerns about gold trading scams and investor confidence in Sierra Leone’s minerals sector.
The trial is expected to resume on July 23, 2026, when the defense is anticipated to correct its submission. Both accused remain on bail pending further proceedings.
