Alleged Vehicle Shipment Scam: Freetown Businessman Released on Bail

Nathan Alimamy Sillah, a 52-year-old businessman, appeared before Magistrate John Manso Fornah at Pademba Road Court No. 2, facing two charges of obtaining money by false pretenses under Section 32(1) of the Larceny Act 1916.

According to the prosecution, Sillah allegedly defrauded Pearce Jalloh on two separate occasions. On December 29, 2025, at 147 Circular Road in the Western Area of Freetown, Sillah purportedly obtained USD 5,100 equivalent to Leones 120,870 by claiming he would facilitate the shipment of three motor vehicles from Maryland, USA, to Queen Elizabeth II Quay.

The second charge relates to December 30, 2025, at the same location, where Sillah allegedly obtained USD 1,000 equivalent to Leones 23,700 under similar false pretenses, promising the shipment of three vehicles from Maryland to Freetown. In both instances, he is accused of knowingly making false claims to defraud Jalloh.

When the charges were read, Sillah pleaded not guilty. His defense counsel, G. Kutubu Esq., applied for bail, noting that reliable sureties were available and that ongoing settlement discussions with the complainant could be jeopardized if Sillah remained in custody. The application was made under Section 76(1) of the Criminal Procedure Act 2024.

Magistrate Fornah granted bail in the sum of Leones 20,000, with a surety of the same amount. The surety must be a responsible senior citizen residing in Freetown with a fixed address, and must present a valid national identity card along with a bank statement.

The case has been adjourned to March 19, 2026.