Forensic Report Confirms Drug Possession of Two accused

A forensic report has confirmed that the substance seized from two suspects is cannabis sativa. The individuals subsequently appeared in court to face charges of drug possession.

Yama Kamara, identified as a businesswoman, and Abu Conteh, a farmer, appeared before Magistrate Augustine Brima Samura at Pademba Road Court No. 8 in Freetown on Wednesday, July 2, 2025. They were charged with possessing sixteen bales of cannabis sativa, collectively weighing over 20 kilograms, found in Makondu Village.

Both defendants are currently charged with possessing a prohibited drug without lawful authority, an offense contrary to Section 8(a) of the National Drug Control Act of 2008 (Act No. 10 of 2008).

The police allege that on Sunday, April 27, 2025, in Makondu Village, located within the Lower Yoni Chiefdom of the Tonkolili District in the Northern Province, the accused were found in possession of sixteen compressed bales of cannabis sativa, for which they lacked legal authorization.

Upon the reading and explanation of the charge, no plea was formally entered by the accused.

Prosecutor Inspector Aminata Korio called Detective Police Constable 13716 Joseph Stevens, a forensic analyst with the Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU), to testify in court as a witness.

Detective Stevens testified that his responsibilities include analyzing drugs and chemical substances submitted for examination. He recalled that on April 30, 2025, Inspector Alpha Turay of TOCU submitted a laboratory request form for the analysis of sixteen compressed parcels containing a suspected dried leaf substance, presumed to be cannabis sativa, seized from the accused in Makondu Village. The total weight of this substance was approximately 20.9 kilograms.

Detective Stevens conducted a presumptive analysis in the presence of the accused, followed by sampling for further laboratory testing. He performed chemical analysis and microscopic crystal examination, which unequivocally confirmed the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active compound in cannabis, within the sample. He subsequently produced a report, signed and dated May 7, 2025, indicating that the sample tested positive for cannabis. This report was formally submitted as Exhibit L and incorporated into the court records.

The witness underwent cross-examination by K. Bangura, Esq.

Magistrate Samura, emphasizing the seriousness of the offense, denied bail and ordered the remand of both accused individuals to the male and female correctional facilities in Freetown. The case has been adjourned until July 9, 2025.