Court Denies Bail for Fuel Embezzlement Suspect

Hassan Turay is currently on trial at Pademba Road Court No. 1, facing charges of fuel embezzlement. Magistrate Sahr Kekura denied his bail application, citing the gravity of the allegations.

Court documents reveal that a local petroleum company entrusted Turay, residing at No. 7 Access Road, Kissy, Freetown, with 20,000 liters of fuel on March 19, 2025. It is alleged that instead of fulfilling the delivery obligation, he misappropriated a portion of the fuel for personal use.

Turay has denied any involvement in the alleged misconduct when questioned.

His defense attorney, C.W.S. Atarrah, Esq., submitted a bail application on Turay's behalf, putting forth several arguments:

• Turay is a Sierra Leonean and a resident within the jurisdiction.

• He poses no flight risk and has credible sureties willing to ensure his court appearances.

• If released on bail, he would not interfere with prosecution witnesses.

• As a father of three, Turay has experienced economic hardship due to his month-long detention.

Atarrah also referenced Sections 79(2) and (3) of the Criminal Procedure Act of 1965 (Act N032) in support of the bail application.

Magistrate Kekura denied the bail request, stressing the seriousness of the charges against Turay. The case has been adjourned until April 30, 2025.