Man Committed to High Court Over Alleged Kush Possession

Santigie Bangura has been committed to the High Court after forensic evidence linked him to 42 wraps of suspected kush, weighing 30.5 grams, allegedly seized from him in Freetown.

The committal follows Wednesday’s court sitting where Joseph Stevens, a forensic analyst from the Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU), testified. 

Stevens recounted that on Saturday, June 15, 2024, Detective Superintendent (DSP) Mohamed Kandeh of the Ross Road Police Station submitted the suspected kush for laboratory analysis.

Stevens told the court he conducted a comprehensive analysis, including chemical testing and microscopic crystal examination, in Bangura's presence. The tests confirmed the substance to contain synthetic cannabinoids. The findings were documented in a report dated July 9, 2024, which was tendered in court as Exhibit G1–2.

Bangura faces one count of possession of a prohibited drug without lawful authority, contrary to Section 8(a) of the National Drug Control Act No. 10 of 2008. It is alleged that on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, he was found in possession of the 42 wraps of kush in Moyiba, Freetown.

During the proceedings, Bangura declined to add to his police statement, call witnesses, or testify in his defense.

State counsel N.M. Taylor Kamara argued that the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence to establish a prima facie case for the matter to proceed to the High Court.

Magistrate Mustapha Braima Jah, in his ruling, expressed satisfaction with the prosecution's evidence linking Bangura to the alleged drugs. He highlighted the strength of the forensic analysis, expert examinations, and exhibits presented in court as a strong basis for trial.

Consequently, Magistrate Jah committed Santigie Bangura to the High Court and ordered him to be remanded in custody pending the commencement of his trial.