Defense Files No-Case Motion in $114k Fraud Trial
In a dramatic turn of events, defense attorneys representing accused barristers Maurice Jenner Mohamed Seisay, 34, and John Mans, 35, have submitted a "no-case" motion, arguing that state prosecutors have failed to present enough evidence to support a conviction.
The high-profile legal battle centers around the alleged fraudulent acquisition of three Toyota 4Runner vehicles, valued at US$114,000.
Seisay and Mans face severe criminal charges, including conspiracy to defraud and obtaining property by false pretenses under Section 32(1) of the Larceny Act 1916.
The prosecution alleges that between November 1 and November 30, 2023, the defendants conspired with unidentified accomplices at the Harding Sesay and Partners Law Firm in Freetown. They are accused of misleading businessman Bockarie Conteh into transferring ownership of the luxury vehicles under fraudulent pretenses.
During the recent court hearing, lead defense counsel J.M. Gengo formally introduced the no-case submission, asserting that the prosecution’s current evidence does not warrant continuing the trial. Gengo requested an immediate dismissal, arguing that several critical prosecution documents—including undated police statements—were legally inadmissible and should not influence the court's decision.
State Prosecutor Yusuf Isaac Sesay acknowledged receiving the defense's motion just minutes before the session, despite rules requiring a 48-hour advance service. Despite the short notice, Prosecutor Sesay argued that the evidence against the accused is robust enough to proceed.
The state contends that the defendants played a direct and active role in facilitating the vehicle transfer, emphasizing that drafting agreements and managing transactions can lead to criminal liability when fraud is established.
Presiding Magistrate Jah denied bail for both defendants, remanding Seisay and Mans to the male correctional facility in Freetown.
The proceedings have been adjourned to August 27, 2026, giving the court time to evaluate the defense's submission alongside the ongoing investigation.
The upcoming ruling will decide if the case proceeds to a full trial or is dismissed.
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