Court Places Bio Junior in Custody Over Samsung Phone Conversion Case

Alfred Bio Junior has been remanded in custody after appearing before Magistrate John Manso Fornah at Pademba Road Court No. 2 in Freetown over an alleged case of fraudulent conversion involving a Samsung mobile phone.

The accused is facing allegations that on July 11, 2026, at Sunny Side Night Club, Aberdeen Beach, within the Freetown Judicial District, he fraudulently converted a Samsung mobile phone valued at Le3,500 to his own use.

According to the prosecution, the phone was entrusted to Bio Junior by Rugiatu Jalloh for safekeeping before it was allegedly converted for personal use.

When the charge was read in court, Bio Junior pleaded not guilty. The prosecution told the court that the complainant was absent but was on her way, requesting a stand down to allow her arrival.

Defence counsel applied for bail on behalf of the accused under Section 76(1)(a) of the Criminal Procedure Act, 2024, arguing that Bio Junior resides within the court’s jurisdiction, has reliable sureties, and would not abscond if granted bail.

However, Magistrate Fornah declined the bail application, citing the seriousness of the alleged offence. The court subsequently ordered that subpoenas be issued for the complainant and two prosecution witnesses to ensure their attendance at the next hearing.

Bio Junior was remanded in custody, and the matter has been adjourned to July 29, 2026, for further proceedings.