Native Doctor Discharged After Serving Time for Stealing Food Items

Native Doctor Discharged After Serving Time for Stealing Food Items

Alusine Conteh, a native doctor, has been discharged after serving seven months in prison for larceny. Conteh was convicted during the September Criminal Session, presided over by Justice Alfred Ganda, after pleading guilty to stealing multiple items, including food, from a woman's residence.

The court heard that on March 4, 2025, Conteh unlawfully took an Android tablet, a bottle of mayonnaise, a chain, two rolls of sachet milk, three cups of sugar, a tin of cocoa, three packets of butter, and 12,528 Leones in cash from Mabinty Kanu’s home.

State Counsel Yusuf Isaac Sesay presented the case, revealing that Conteh, a traditional healer, had been invited by Kanu to assist with health issues concerning her daughter-in-law. However, instead of providing medical aid, Conteh allegedly stole the items after requesting a 2,000 Leone payment.

When Kanu explained she lacked the money but offered items of equivalent value, Conteh reportedly agreed, only to later take the items without her consent.

Conteh admitted to the theft, telling Justice Ganda that he took the items because the complainant refused to pay him. In his plea for mercy, Conteh expressed remorse and highlighted his seven months of incarceration. His defense lawyer, O.V. Gabber, emphasized Conteh's youth and potential for a better future, noting that his guilty plea saved court proceedings.

Justice Ganda discharged Conteh, considering the time served. The judge also underscored the importance of respecting the law and the trust placed in traditional healers, with the case highlighting the need for integrity and accountability within all societal sectors.