Nigerian CEO Charged with $30K Gold Fraud Awaits Ruling

Nigerian CEO Charged with $30K Gold Fraud Awaits Ruling

Israel Ede, a Nigerian national and the Chief Executive Officer of ICEE Marion Restaurant in Aberdeen, Freetown, appeared before Magistrate Mamakoh Saio Kallon at Pademba Road Court No. 3 on Friday, February 6th, 2026. Mr. Ede is facing charges of conspiracy to defraud and obtaining money by false pretenses.

The court is scheduled to deliver a ruling on the matter on February 16, 2026.

The charges originate from an incident that occurred on Wednesday, October 22nd, 2025, at Hotel Mariam in Aberdeen, Western Area.

Prosecutors assert that Mr. Ede conspired with unidentified individuals to commit fraud and illegally obtain funds. Specifically, it is alleged that the defendant intentionally defrauded Hordt Hormuth of thirty thousand United States dollars (equivalent to 711,000 Leones) under the pretense of selling two kilograms of gold bars—a claim known to be false.

The defendant was presented before the court for a preliminary investigation, and no plea was formally recorded following the reading and explanation of the charges.

The prosecution, led by Inspector Mohamed Kamara, presented witness testimony, and the case is currently under review. The purpose of this review is to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to warrant committal to the High Court for a formal trial or if the defendant should be acquitted.

Magistrate Kallon adjourned the case to February 16, 2026, for the ruling. The defendant remains on existing bail.