NLe62,000 Solar Deal Lands 27-Year-Old Businessman Behind Bars

A 27-year-old businessman, Mohamed Bangura, has been remanded at the Male Correctional Facility in Freetown after appearing in court on an allegation of obtaining money by false pretences in connection with a solar installation deal.

Bangura appeared before Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah at Pademba Road Court No. 1 and was charged with one count of obtaining money by false pretences, contrary to Section 32(1) of the Larceny Act of 1916.

According to the prosecution, between June 10 and June 30, 2016, at Ogoo Farm in the Western Area of Freetown, Bangura allegedly obtained NLe62,000 from Martha Kanu by false pretences.

The prosecution alleged that Bangura represented to Kanu that he would install solar panels at her resort centre at Ogoo Farm, despite allegedly knowing that the representation was false and intending to defraud her.

When the charge was read and explained to Bangura, he did not enter a plea as the matter is at the committal stage.

The prosecution, led by Deputy Superintendent of Police Eric A. Deen, informed the court that Bangura had been served with copies of the case and inquiry files, which he acknowledged receiving.

Magistrate Jah denied Bangura bail and remanded him at the Male Correctional Facility. The matter was adjourned to September 14, 2026, for further proceedings.

The allegations against Bangura have not been proven in court, and he remains entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.