Mason Admits Guilt in Sierra Leone Land Fraud

A 34-year-old mason, Sanfa Sesay, has pleaded guilty to defrauding a land buyer of Le 25,000 in a fraudulent land transaction in Freetown.

Sesay appeared before Magistrate Mary Julian Gbloh of Pademba Road Court No. 5 on Monday, August 18th, 2025, facing a charge of Obtaining Money by False Pretence, a violation of Section 32(1) of the Larceny Act of 1916.

According to court documents, on April 21st, 2019, Sesay, with intent to defraud, obtained twenty-five thousand Leones (Le 25,000) from Sorie Ibrahim Fofanah. Sesay falsely claimed to possess a plot of wetland at Thomson Bay off Wilkinson Road, Freetown, which he advertised for sale, despite knowing his claim was untrue.

Upon hearing the charge, the accused entered a guilty plea.

State prosecutor, Sergeant Lamin Fofanah (Sergeant 3001), presented the accused's voluntary caution statement, marked as Exhibit A1-8, and his charge statement, marked as Exhibit B1-2, as evidence.

Magistrate Gbloh indicated that a sentencing decision would be made at a later date. The case has been adjourned to August 20th, 2025, for ruling, with the accused remaining in custody.