Drama in Court as Prosecution Witness Collapses While Testifying in Le 25,585 Theft Case

Proceedings at Pademba Road Court No. 1 in Freetown took a dramatic turn when a prosecution witness suddenly collapsed during cross-examination in a shop breaking and larceny matter involving alleged theft valued at Le 25,585.

The accused, Alimamy Kamara, is facing a charge of shop breaking and larceny, contrary to Section 20(1) of the Larceny Act 1916. He was later committed to stand trial at the High Court by Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah after the prosecution closed its case.

The incident occurred while Detective Police Constable 17939 Kamara I. of the Central Police Division was being cross-examined by the unrepresented accused. In the midst of questioning, the witness suddenly collapsed in the courtroom, causing a brief disruption of proceedings.

Police prosecutors quickly intervened and assisted in resuscitating him. After regaining consciousness, the witness informed the court that he had been fasting, which caused him to lose energy and faint. Despite the ordeal, he resumed the witness stand, completed his testimony, and subsequently left the courtroom.

Prior to the incident, the witness had testified that on Thursday, 19th June 2025, at No. 2 Wallace Johnson Street in Freetown, the accused allegedly broke into the shop of Salieu Kamara with intent to steal. The prosecution alleged that Kamara made away with cash amounting to Le 13,000, eight boxes of Cross Empire cigarettes, seven boxes of Cross Gold Seal Menthol cigarettes, and other items, all properties belonging to the complainant, with a total value of Le 25,585.

Detective Police Constable 17649 Kargbo B., who led the prosecution, told the court that the complainant had reportedly arrested the accused and made a formal complaint. The matter was later assigned to Kamara I. for investigation.

The court heard that statements were obtained from the complainant and witnesses on the same day. The investigating officer, accompanied by Detective Sergeant 22965 Conteh AA and the complainant, visited the crime scene. Photographs taken with the complainant’s mobile phone were tendered and admitted in evidence.

The witness further testified that on 29th June 2025, the accused was questioned in Krio and his statement recorded in English. The accused confirmed its correctness by affixing his right thumbprint. On 31st June 2025, he made an additional statement, which he also endorsed with his thumbprint. Both statements were retained by the police and submitted as exhibits.

When the charge was read and explained, no plea was taken, as the matter was before the Magistrate Court for preliminary investigation.

At the conclusion of the prosecution’s case, Magistrate Jah ruled that sufficient evidence had been adduced and committed the accused to the High Court for trial.

The case now proceeds to the High Court, following what many described as a tense and dramatic courtroom session.