Former police recruit faces High Court over fabricated evidence in coup plot

A former police recruit, aged 44, has been remanded to the High Court in Freetown following serious allegations of fabricating evidence in connection with a suspected coup plot against the government of President Julius Maada Bio.

Victor Sharkah, the accused, appeared before Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah at Pademba Road Court No.1, where he was charged with attempting to pervert the course of justice. This charge stems from events that allegedly took place on September 27, 2023, when Sharkah is said to have deliberately created false evidence related to a purported conspiracy to overthrow the government.

The prosecution contends that Sharkah had a clear understanding of the context surrounding the alleged coup and intentionally fabricated evidence to obstruct the legal process. During the proceedings, the charges were formally read to Sharkah, who opted not to enter a plea.

Sergeant Mohamed Lahai, representing the prosecution, presented a series of witnesses and urged the court to assess the evidence for the purpose of committal to the High Court. After reviewing the evidence, Magistrate Jah acknowledged that a preliminary investigation had been conducted and determined that the prosecution had indeed provided sufficient grounds for the case to proceed.

As a result, Sharkah was committed to stand trial without the option of bail, in accordance with Section 120 of Act No. 32 of the Criminal Procedure Act of 1965.

He has been remanded to the male correctional facility in Freetown as the legal proceedings continue.