By Fatima Kpaka
A cleaner at Connaught Hospital, Ibrahim Sankoh, has been committed to the High Court for trial following allegations of theft at the Connaught Cost Recovery Pharmacy. The decision was handed down by Magistrate Shar Kekura of Pademba Road Court No.1 on Thursday, May 15, 2025.
Sankoh was arraigned on a charge of larceny by servant, contrary to Section 17(4) of the Larceny Act of 1916. The indictment alleges that on January 16, 2025, Sankoh, in his capacity as a cleaner at the Cost Recovery Pharmacy, stole various medicines, including 50 boxes of Immuno Boost capsules, 100 boxes of Azithromycin tablets, 40 boxes of Well Woman 50+ capsules, and other assorted items, amounting to 93,900 new Leones—property of the pharmacy.
During proceedings, Sergeant 9939 Mohamed Lahai, the prosecutor, presented three witnesses, including a formal witness who tendered exhibits in support of the case. With no legal representation, Sankoh cross-examined the witnesses himself and in his defense, relied on his statement to the police, in which he reportedly confessed to the theft.
Magistrate Kekura, after reviewing the evidence—including Sankoh’s own confessional statement—ruled that the prosecution had established sufficient grounds to commit the case to the High Court under Section 120 of the Criminal Procedure Act No.32 of 1965. Consequently, Sankoh was granted bail in the sum of 200,000 Leones, with two sureties, who must be employed in a recognized institution in Freetown and provide proof of their employment and residence through a national identification card. Bail approval was assigned to the Deputy Assistant Registrar.
The case now proceeds to the High Court for further hearing.