APC Politician Moriba Granted Bail, Case Committed to High Court on Incitement Charges

APC Politician Moriba Granted Bail, Case Committed to High Court on Incitement Charges

Mohamed Moriba, an opposition politician and Southern Province Public Relations Officer (PRO) for the All People's Congress (APC) party, has been committed to the High Court to face trial for incitement.

Magistrate John Manso Fornah of Pademba Road Court No. 2 issued the committal following proceedings regarding events that occurred on December 27, 2025, in Kamalo Village, Karina Judicial District. Moriba, a former military officer, is accused of creating and distributing audio and video content on a TikTok account known as "Salone Gossip Hub." Prosecutors allege the materials contained messages intended to provoke chaos and civil unrest.

The proceedings on the day were strictly for committal, and no plea was taken from the defendant. Assistant Superintendent of Police Sorie Conteh appeared on behalf of the prosecution.

Defense counsel A.A. Bangura, representing Moriba, requested bail for his client, highlighting that Moriba has been held in detention for over five months. Counsel invoked Section 79 (1) (c) of the Criminal Procedure Act (CPA) of 2024 in his application.

Upon reviewing the evidence—including exhibits, caution statements, and a transcript of the recorded messages—Magistrate Fornah determined that the case is indictable and must proceed to the High Court.

While the court ruled that the trial must move forward, Magistrate Fornah granted bail in the amount of fifty thousand Leones (NLe 50,000). The bail terms require a surety of equal value, specifically a senior citizen residing in Freetown with a fixed address and a valid national ID card. 

The surety must also receive approval from the Deputy Assistant Registrar, in accordance with Section 116 (1) of the CPA.