Trader Receives 12-Year Imprisonment for Kush Possession

Trader Receives 12-Year Imprisonment for Kush Possession

Sheku Kamara, 35, a trader, has been sentenced to twelve years in prison following his final appearance before Justice Isata Sellu Tucker at the Criminal Sessions of High Court No. 5 in Freetown.

Kamara faced a charge of unlawful possession of drugs, in violation of Section 8(a) of the National Drugs Control Act 2008, Act No. 10 of 2008.

According to court records, on March 28, 2024, in Freetown, Kamara was found in possession of twenty-five grams of kush without lawful authority. He pleaded guilty when the charge was presented.

Unrepresented by legal counsel, Kamara requested leniency from the court, urging Justice Tucker to exercise mercy.

In her ruling, Justice Tucker acknowledged the defendant’s immediate guilty plea and cooperation, noting his expression of remorse and acceptance of responsibility, which conserved court time.

She emphasized the serious nature of such offenses, stating they warrant strong disapproval through custodial sentences to serve as a deterrent.

However, considering the defendant’s plea and mitigation, Justice Tucker sentenced Kamara to twelve years’ imprisonment at the Male Correctional Facility in Freetown.

The court also ordered the forfeiture and destruction of the twenty-five grams of kush by the appropriate authorities.

Additionally, Justice Tucker advised Kamara to avoid any involvement with drugs or drug-related offenses upon completion of his sentence.

The court’s decision underscores the government’s commitment to combating drug trafficking and possession, while also encouraging offender rehabilitation and reintegration into society.