Procedural Irregularities Unveiled in Samuel Brima Mattia's Trial

The trial of Samuel Brima Mattia, a journalist, witnessed pivotal developments during cross-examination at Pademba Road Court No. 1, presided over by Magistrate Sahr Kekura. 

The proceedings exposed discrepancies in the procurement of statements from the accused, thereby raising concerns regarding procedural regularity. Joseph Mendel Lamin, also known as "Manager Dust," alongside Morlia Kamara and Umaru Timbo, face charges of conspiracy to commit murder and murder under the Offences Against the Person Act 1861, as amended by the Abolition of the Death Penalty Act 2021. 

The prosecution alleges a conspiracy to murder Mattia at the Voice of Peace and Development (VOPAD) Radio Station on January 15, 2025. During cross-examination led by defense counsel M. Baratay, it was disclosed that procedures for statement acquisition were not strictly adhered to. 

Initially, only the first accused was present during their statement, with others brought in later. Legal representation was absent at the onset, arriving subsequently but not actively participating in initial interrogations. 

Evidence designated as Exhibit B1–25, obtained from a colleague rather than authored by the witness, was tendered. Despite confirmation of a charge statement from the first accused, State Counsel noted its absence from the case file. 

Procedural irregularities prompted Magistrate Kekura to adjourn the case to May 27, 2025, for further hearing, emphasizing the necessity of procedural integrity for a fair trial.

Questions concerning the validity of evidence and statement collection procedures persist as the trial, attracting substantial public and media interest, progresses.