Freetown, August 21, 2025 — A Guinean businessman is facing multiple criminal charges after authorities intercepted a large quantity of Tramadol tablets and undeclared mobile phones at Sierra Leone’s northern border.
Mohamed Jalloh appeared before Magistrate Mustapha Braima Jah at the Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 1 on Wednesday, August 20, to answer charges of drug trafficking and customs evasion.
Jalloh was arrested on July 26 at the Gbalamuya Customs Post in Kambia District when officials reportedly discovered 79 grosses, nine packets, and nine strips of Tramadol 225MG, along with 132 units of mobile phones allegedly smuggled without declaration.
He is facing three counts: unlawful possession of a prohibited drug and transportation of a prohibited drug under the National Drug Control Act of 2008, as well as evasion of customs duties under the Customs Act of 2011.
Detective Sergeant Sundu S.K. of the Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU) testified in court, tendering the seized drugs as evidence and presenting Jalloh’s caution statement together with the advice of the Director of Public Prosecutions, which prompted the charges.
Defense lawyer J.N. Gengo questioned the fairness of the investigation, pointing out that other passengers in the vehicle were not interrogated.
He also argued that the case should be transferred to the High Court, stressing that the lead investigator was not present at the time of Jalloh’s arrest.
In response, State Counsel A.B.N. Taylor Kamara maintained that the prosecution had already established a prima facie case against the accused.
Magistrate Jah reserved judgment, noting that the court would determine whether the matter should proceed to the High Court.
He reminded both parties that the case would be guided strictly by law and not by outside perceptions.
The matter has been adjourned to Thursday, August 21, 2025, for ruling.
