FREETOWN, 6th October 2026 – Two representatives of Chinese heavy-duty truck giant Sinotruk have been granted bail by a Freetown Magistrate after they were accused of defrauding a Hong Kong-based company of $54,825 in a tyre supply deal.
Accused persons Jai Qibin and Zhou Rong appeared before Magistrate Mustapha Briama Jah at Pademba Road Court No.1 in Freetown on allegations of conspiracy to defraud and obtaining money by false pretenses.
According to court documents, the alleged incident occurred on April 26, 2025, at 8 Kallon Drive, Aberdeen, in the West End of Freetown.
Prosecutors allege that the two accused, acting together with other associates at China-based Sinotruk International Capital Co. Limited, dishonestly induced Hong Kong What Group Co. Limited to transfer $54,825 for the purchase of 270 tyres.
The prosecution further contends that the defendants falsely assured the complainants that the consignment would consist of Chaoyang and Double Coin brand tyres that would meet all contractual specifications, a representation which they knew to be false.
On the second count, the State alleges that the accused persons obtained the said sum from Hong Kong What Group Co. Limited and one Yang Ruilan by falsely claiming that Sinotruk would fulfill the supply agreement.
Both charges are serious fraud-related offences under Sierra Leone’s Larceny Act and carry a potential prison term if convicted.
No plea was taken at this stage as Magistrate Jah confirmed the matter will proceed as a Preliminary Investigation to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to commit the case to the High Court for trial.
Defence lawyers, I. Turay and M.A. Fahad, renewed their bail application for both accused persons, which was granted by the Magistrate. The bail conditions were not immediately disclosed.
Sinotruk is one of China’s largest manufacturers of heavy-duty trucks and auto parts, with operations and agents across Africa, including Sierra Leone where Chinese trucks are widely used in mining, construction and haulage.
The matter has been adjourned to October 12, 2026, for further hearing.
