Kenema Murder Mystery: Five in Court Over Alleged Kidnapping and Murder of Mariama Kanneh

At the High Court in Kenema on 17 November 2025, five defendants appeared before Justice Abdul Sheriff to answer charges of conspiracy, kidnapping, and murder contrary to Sierra Leonean law.

According to State Counsel Andrew F. Kamara, the accused Mohamed Swaray, Ibrahim Kamara alias Shengbeh, Lamin Fofanah alias Butter Cup, Brima Momoh, and Mustapha Kamara allegedly conspired with unknown individuals to commit a felony on 30 July 2025 at Sembehun Village, Gaura Chiefdom, Kenema District, in the Eastern Province. The defendants are accused of kidnapping and murdering Mariama Kanneh.

During proceedings, two witnesses, Yatta Kamara (PW1) and Wuyata Kanneh (PW2), were called to give evidence. PW1, Yatta Kamara, told the court that while broadcasting pepper seeds on her farm, she saw the defendants approximately ten meters away carrying Mariama Kanneh on the back of Ibrahim Kamara (the second accused). She said she later informed local authorities, including Chief Alhaji, about her observations. Statements were also obtained from her at the Joru Police Station and Kenema Police Station.

Two additional witnesses are yet to testify. Justice Sheriff ordered their attendance on the next court date. The matter was adjourned for further hearing, and all five defendants remain in custody.