Defendant Saio Dauda Remanded in Case of Alleged Charcoal Theft

Defendant Saio Dauda Remanded in Case of Alleged Charcoal Theft

Proceedings commenced with testimony from Baindu Yamie, a businesswoman, regarding the alleged theft by the defendant, Saio Dauda. Ms. Yamie stated that on the evening of Friday, February 20, 2026, she transported a consignment of charcoal into Freetown but lacked immediate secure storage. 

The defendant, Mr. Dauda, subsequently offered a storage location. Ms. Yamie secured the consignment, entrusted the primary key to the defendant, and retained a duplicate. She later reported the theft of one bag of charcoal, valued at SLE 1,250.

The matter was officially reported to the Congo Cross police station. Ms. Yamie's testimony also included information provided by a neighbor, Amie, who claimed to have observed the defendant transporting bags of charcoal, which prompted the initiation of the police statements and the formal prosecution of the case. When the charges were formally read, the defendant declined to enter a plea. 

The prosecution, represented by DPC 18235 Kabbie K. Thoronka, presented the witness for direct testimony, followed by cross-examination conducted by the defendant. The court confirmed that the arrangement involved the defendant offering storage facilities, followed by the subsequent, alleged unauthorized removal of a bag of charcoal. 

The Magistrate ordered an adjournment, scheduling the next hearing for March 26, 2026.