Police Officer Among Three Remanded Over Alleged $300,000 Ransom Kidnapping

A police officer and two other men accused of orchestrating a robbery and kidnapping operation have been refused bail and remanded in custody following their second court appearance before Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah at Pademba Road Court No. 1 in Freetown.

The accused persons, who appeared in court on Monday, 28 April 2026, are 34-year-old Simpson Vandi Kallon, a police officer; 36-year-old Mohamed Katalie Lamin, an employee of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA); and Eric Brima Byle, a private security guard attached to Chapter One Night Club.

They are facing three counts of conspiracy, robbery with aggravation, and kidnapping.

According to the charge sheet, the alleged offences took place on Sunday, 29 March 2026, at Touch Point Bar near Saint Mary Supermarket at Hill Cut in Freetown, where the defendants allegedly conspired with other persons unknown to commit the crimes.

On the second count, prosecutors alleged that the accused, while armed with a pistol, robbed Ibrahim Koroma of three gold chains valued at US$30,000, two mobile phones an iPhone 17 Pro Max valued at US$1,800 and an iPhone 17 valued at US$1,500 as well as US$140,000 and Le360,000 in cash.

The prosecution further alleged that personal violence was used against the complainant during the incident.

On the third count, the defendants were accused of kidnapping Ibrahim Koroma at Juba Bridge in Freetown and taking him hostage at G-Complex Guest House in Mile 91, where they allegedly demanded a ransom of US$300,000 for his release.

When the charges were read and explained in court, no plea was taken.

Defence counsel A. Boyzie Kamara, representing the third accused, applied for bail under Section 76(1)(c), arguing that the offences remain allegations, that his client is not a flight risk, and that he has reliable sureties to stand on his behalf.

The first and second defendants were not legally represented.

However, the prosecution, led by CSP Zizer on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, together with PM Fofanah and R.A. Naylender representing the complainant, informed the court that disclosures had not yet been served but would be made available before the next hearing date. An affidavit in opposition to bail was also tendered.

Magistrate Jah refused bail, citing the gravity of the allegations, and ordered that all three accused be remanded at the Male Correctional Centre on Pademba Road.

The matter was adjourned to 30 April 2026 for further proceedings.