Visa Fraud Trial Adjourned Amid Evidence Dispute

Visa Fraud Trial Adjourned Amid Evidence Dispute

The ongoing visa fraud trial of Mohamed Nicol, a 41-year-old businessman, has been delayed following a contentious dispute over the admissibility of video evidence. The proceedings, held at Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 2, center on allegations of fraud regarding a failed Canadian visa application.

Nicol stands charged with one count of obtaining money by false pretenses, in violation of Section 32(1) of the Larceny Act of 1916. Prosecutors allege that between January 1 and October 31, 2025, Nicol defrauded complainant Victor Comer of Le311,000 by falsely claiming he could facilitate travel arrangements and visa procurement.

The legal friction intensified during Tuesday’s hearing when the prosecution attempted to submit a video recording into evidence. Witness Mariatu Bangura testified that she had filmed Nicol counting money provided by her and the complainant using her mobile device.

The defense team mounted an immediate objection, challenging the validity of the footage on several grounds:

• Lack of Timestamp: The defense argued that the prosecution failed to establish when the video was captured.

• Need for Authentication: Counsel insisted that the footage requires verification by a judiciary-appointed expert before it can be accepted as evidence.

• Identification Issues: The defense further contended that the individuals in the recording are not clearly identifiable, challenging the prosecution's claim that Nicol is the person shown in the video.

In response to the objections, Magistrate John Manso Fornah granted the prosecution’s request for additional time to file a formal reply. The case has been adjourned until July 21, 2026, for further proceedings.