Student Remanded for Alleged Le144 Million New Zealand Visa Fraud

A 31-year-old student, Sahr George Kabba, has been remanded in custody for allegedly defrauding a couple in a fake New Zealand visa scheme.

The matter was heard before Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah at Pademba Road Court No.1 in Freetown.

According to the prosecution, between September 1, 2024, and February 28, 2025, Kabba obtained Le144 million from Edward and Salamatu Koroma by falsely claiming he could secure visas and facilitate travel to New Zealand for their sons.

The accused allegedly deceived the couple, fully aware that his promises were false.

Sergeant Mohamed Lahai of the Transnational Organized Crime Unit, the lead prosecution witness, testified that the accused was arrested on March 18, 2025, after investigations uncovered receipts, an electronic visa document, and WhatsApp conversations presented as evidence.

The witness further confirmed that Kabba voluntarily gave a caution statement, which he admitted was true and accurate, signing it by affixing his thumbprint in the presence of police officers.

Given the gravity of the alleged offence, Magistrate Jah ordered that the accused be remanded at the Male Correctional Centre. The matter was adjourned to November 4, 2025, for further proceedings.