Police Witness Describes Roof-to-Kitchen Entry in Housebreaking Case
A physical trail leading from a veranda roof into a residential kitchen, alongside photographic evidence from the crime scene, formed the core of police testimony against 18-year-old Alimamy Bangura during committal proceedings at Pademba Road Court No. 2.
Testifying before Magistrate John Manso Fornah, Detective Police Constable M.A. Conteh of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at Congo Cross Police Station detailed the preliminary investigation into the reported burglary at the home of complainant Sarah Tarawalie following the incident on June 2, 2026.
According to Conteh, investigating officers inspected the premises at No. 23 Cartton Carew Road, off Wilkinson Road, where they observed structural damage indicating an entry point from the veranda roof into the kitchen. Scenes of Crime officer DPC Johannes C. photographed the damage and surrounding area, while investigators secured written statements from Tarawalie and two witnesses. All statements and photographs were formally tendered in court as evidence.
Conteh further testified that Bangura was brought to the police station by the complainant. Following questioning conducted in Krio, two caution statements were recorded in English. The detective stated that both documents were read back and explained to Bangura in Krio, after which the accused confirmed their accuracy by affixing his right thumbprint. These statements were also admitted as prosecution exhibits.
Bangura faces a single charge of housebreaking and larceny under Section 26(1) of the Larceny Act of 1916. Prosecutors allege that he unlawfully entered Tarawalie’s residence and stole cash, jewellery, footwear, and plastic chairs with a total estimated value of NLe58,031.
No formal plea was recorded as the case is undergoing preliminary committal proceedings to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to commit the matter to the High Court for trial.
Appearing without legal representation, Bangura declined to cross-examine Constable Conteh when offered the opportunity. Magistrate Fornah ordered the accused remanded at the Male Correctional Facility in Freetown and issued subpoenas for absent prosecution witnesses.
The matter was adjourned to October 13, 2026, for further hearings. The allegations remain subject to judicial determination.
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