Ex-Navy Serviceman Charged with Theft of Military Garage Equipment

Ex-Navy Serviceman Charged with Theft of Military Garage Equipment

A former navy serviceman stands accused of breaking into a military garage and making off with valuable automotive parts and tools. Sidiki Kondeh faces charges of storebreaking and larceny, in violation of Section 26(1) of the Larceny Act of 1916.

According to court documents, the alleged incident occurred on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the Navy Garage within the Navy Compound in Freetown. Kondeh is suspected of unlawfully entering the premises and stealing a significant quantity of items, including:

• Two motor alternators and a vehicle part, valued at NLe 3,000

• One drilling machine, valued at NLe 500

• One vehicle station, valued at NLe 1,500

• Three pairs of sneakers (crape), valued at NLe 3,000

The total estimated value of the stolen property, which belonged to Alpha Sawaneh, a military mechanic attached to the Navy, is approximately NLe 8,000.

During the ongoing court proceedings, Mohamed Mansaray, a military personnel residing at Hill Station and a co-worker of the complainant, testified that he identified Kondeh, confirming that the accused had previously worked within the same compound.

Mansaray stated that on the morning of the incident, the complainant reported the theft of several items from his garage, prompting an immediate investigation. Suspicion quickly focused on Kondeh, leading authorities to conduct a search of his residence. Inside his apartment, they reportedly recovered two alternators and other car parts believed to be the stolen items.

When questioned, Kondeh allegedly claimed he had been given the items for repair. However, authorities found his explanation unconvincing and promptly handed him over to the complainant. A formal report was subsequently filed with the police.

The case has been adjourned to September 4, 2025, for further proceedings, and the accused remains in custody.