The treasón trial involving Amadu Koita Makalo and others will end today, Monday, 22nd July, 2024.
According to a notice issued by the Judiciary of Sierra Leone, the proceedings will take place at Court No. 1 at the main Law Courts Building in Freetown at 10:00 a.m.
The notice further noted that the presiding Judge will conclude his summing up to the Jury, who shall thereafter give their verdict.
Journalists with accreditation are expected to be seated at 9:30am prompt.
Amadu Koita Makalo, who is the main accused in tgid high-profile treason case has firmly denied all charges against him during his previous appearance before Hon. Justice Komba Kamanda at High Court No. 1 on Monday 1 July 2024.
Koita is facing serious accusations, including conspiracy to overthrow President Bio’s government, attempting to breach Wilberforce Barracks, and allegedly killing military officers during a failed coup attempt.
He was apprehended following the failed coup on November 26, 2023.
Koita claimed in his testimony that armed officers forcibly detained him at the Wilberforce Barracks’ 5th Infantry Battalion Guard Room and coerced him into making an audio recording.
A former soldier and bodyguard for ex-President Ernest Bai Koroma, Makalo had gained a substantial following on social media for his vocal criticism of President Julius Maada Bio’s administration.
He was arrested on December 4, becoming one of 85 individuals, mostly military personnel, detained in connection with the attempted coup.
According to a news release by Information Minister Chernor Bah, 12 alleged conspirators, including former police officers, have been charged with offenses such as treason, misprision of treason, harboring, and aiding the enemy.
The November 26 incident involved armed attackers storming multiple military and police facilities, leading to deadly clashes that resulted in 21 deaths and the escape of hundreds of prisoners before authorities restored order.
