Businessman Remanded Over Alleged Illegal Firearms Possession

Mohamed Ansumana Dabeneh, a 55-year-old businessman, has been remanded at the Male Correctional Centre in Freetown after appearing in court on five charges related to the alleged unlawful possession and control of firearms and ammunition.

Dabeneh pleaded not guilty to all five counts, which relate to the unlawful possession and control of arms and ammunition without lawful authority, contrary to provisions of the Sierra Leone Arms and Ammunition Act, 2023.

The charges arose from an incident on August 14, 2026, at #1 Kaikai Drive, Jui, in the Western Area. According to the particulars of the offences, Dabeneh was allegedly found in possession of firearms and ammunition without the required licences and was also allegedly exercising unlawful custody and control over the weapons.

The prosecution told the court that the alleged possession was contrary to Section 22(1) of the Arms and Ammunition Act, 2023, which sets out licensing requirements for firearms and ammunition.

When the charges were read to him, Dabeneh pleaded not guilty. His counsel, I. Fofanah, Esq., confirmed receipt of the case documents and applied for bail.

Counsel argued that Dabeneh was not a flight risk and would not interfere with prosecution witnesses. He also presented sureties who, he said, were willing to guarantee the accused’s appearance in court.

However, Magistrate Jah refused the bail application, citing the seriousness of the charges.

The case was adjourned to September 9, 2026, for further proceedings, while Dabeneh remains in custody.