Guinean National Faces High Court Trial on Drug and Customs Offences

A Guinean businessman, Mohamed Jalloh, has been committed to the High Court for trial on serious charges involving drug possession and customs offenses. 

The decision was handed down by Magistrate Mustapha Braima Jah at Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 1 in Freetown.

Jalloh's arrest on July 26, 2025, at the Gbalamuya Customs Post in Kambia District, Northern Province, followed the alleged discovery of a significant quantity of prohibited drugs and undeclared goods. 

Authorities reportedly found him in possession of 79 grosses, nine packets, and nine strips of Tramadol 225MG, along with 132 undeclared mobile phones, all without lawful authority.

The charges against Jalloh include “Unlawful possession and transportation of prohibited drugs and evasion of customs duties,” in violation of Sections 7(b) and 8(a) of the National Drug Control Act 2008, and Section 77(c) of the Customs Act 2011. 

These offenses carry substantial legal penalties under Sierra Leonean law.

During the committal hearing, the prosecution presented detailed evidence regarding the seized drugs and undeclared items. 

They emphasized the gravity of the alleged offenses and argued against granting bail, citing a potential risk of interference with the ongoing case.

After careful consideration of the submissions, Magistrate Jah determined that sufficient grounds existed to commit Jalloh for trial at the High Court. 

Bail was subsequently denied, and Jalloh has been remanded to the Male Correctional Centre until the next High Court session.