Two Charged in $13,000 Gold Fraud Case Committed to High Court

Two Charged in $13,000 Gold Fraud Case Committed to High Court

Two men accused of orchestrating a major gold scam involving thousands of dollars have been committed to face trial at the High Court following preliminary proceedings at the Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 1.

The defendants, Isaac Jeptha Mamatta, 25, a local businessman, and Ibrahim Al-Wahhab Bah, face two counts of conspiracy to defraud and obtaining money by false pretenses under Section 32(1) of the Larceny Act 1916. Prosecutors allege the pair fraudulently acquired US$13,000 and Le20,000 from a buyer by claiming they would supply three kilograms of gold and arrange for its export to Dubai.

During cross-examination before Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah, defense counsel H. Cham pointed out significant gaps in the state’s evidence. Key physical items—such as payment receipts, signed contracts, or the physical gold itself—have not been recovered by investigators.

Lead prosecutor Assistant Commissioner of Police Juan M.S. Bull concluded the state's case following procedural updates, including a representation adjustment for the defense team.

Neither defendant entered a plea during the committal stage, and both remain out on bail pending further court orders.

Magistrate Jah has adjourned proceedings to August 25, 2026, when the court will formally rule on committing the matter to the High Court for trial.