FREETOWN — A tense scene unfolded on Tuesday at the Pademba Road Magistrate Court No.1 when the wife of an accused man on trial allegedly attempted to smuggle prohibited substances into the courtroom.
The accused, Joseph Kabia, commonly known as “Manager,” is currently standing trial on seventeen counts, including forgery, unlawful possession of arms, possession of counterfeit banknotes, and unlawful concealment of ammunition.
According to courtroom reports, Kabia’s wife, Zainab B. Samura, entered the courtroom carrying a black handbag, inside which was a white plastic bag.
She was seen discreetly placing the plastic bag beneath her husband’s seat in an apparent effort to evade security checks.
However, prison officers Madina Sesay and Isha Bundu noticed the suspicious movement and swiftly intervened. Upon retrieving the bag, they discovered an assortment of illegal drugs, triggering unrest inside the courtroom.
Witnesses say the accused attempted to snatch the bag back from the officers, nearly provoking a physical confrontation. The situation was quickly contained as officers restrained him and restored order.
The dramatic incident has raised renewed concerns about courtroom security and ongoing attempts to interfere with judicial proceedings.
Authorities say investigations into the smuggling attempt are now underway.
