Civil Engineer Remanded in Custody for Alleged Overseas Travel Fraud

Civil Engineer Remanded in Custody for Alleged Overseas Travel Fraud

Pius Mohamed Lumeh, a civil engineer, has been remanded in custody following his appearance in court on charges of conspiracy to defraud and obtaining money by false pretenses.

Mr. Lumeh was arraigned before Magistrate Mustapha Braima Jah at Pademba Road Court No. 1 in Freetown.

The accused faces two counts stemming from an alleged scheme to fraudulently promise overseas travel for a young man's employment opportunity in Australia. The alleged offenses occurred between August and September 2023 in Jui, Western Area, Freetown.

According to court documents, Mr. Lumeh is alleged to have conspired with unknown individuals to defraud Paul Gbetuwa of $8,800 USD. This was reportedly achieved by falsely claiming he would secure an overseas travel program for Mr. Gbetuwa's son, Noah Gbetuwa, to Australia.

The court further states that the defendant falsely represented his ability to facilitate the overseas trip, knowing the claim to be false. Mr. Lumeh did not enter a plea when the charges were read.

The prosecutor, Inspector Kadie M. Taylor, requested a short adjournment to present her witness.

Magistrate Jah denied bail and remanded the defendant at the Male Correctional Facility in Freetown.

The case has been adjourned to October 29, 2025.

This case underscores ongoing efforts by authorities to combat fraud schemes that target unsuspecting victims with false promises of overseas employment opportunities.