By Fatima Kpaka
FREETOWN – Cardiologist and Dean at Connaught Government Hospital, Professor Dr. James Russell, has instituted legal action against two businessmen over the alleged theft of a medical diagnostic machine valued at US$37,100.
On Monday, 27 July 2026, the accused—Abdul Jabbie Mansaray and Joseph Bellon—appeared before Magistrate John Manso Fornah at Pademba Road Court No. 2. They face five counts of conspiracy, larceny, obtaining money by false pretences, and receiving stolen goods, contrary to the Larceny Act of 1916.
According to the charge sheet, Mansaray allegedly conspired with unknown persons on 13 January 2026 at No. 3 Bathurst Street, Freetown, to commit larceny. He is accused of stealing a Vivid IQ Echo Machine belonging to Dr. Russell.
The prosecution further alleges that Mansaray fraudulently obtained Le2,500 from Fatmata Jullet Nicolls and Le1,015 from George Russell via Orange Money on 28 and 29 January 2026, claiming the funds were needed for transportation to recover the stolen machine.
Bellon, meanwhile, is accused of receiving the stolen equipment between 13 and 28 January 2026 at Kossoh Town, Freetown, knowing it to be stolen property.
No plea was taken as the matter is before the court by way of committal proceedings. State Prosecutor Yusuf Isaac Sesay requested a short adjournment to call the first witness.
Magistrate Fornah denied bail, citing the seriousness of the offences, and ordered both defendants remanded at the male correctional facility. The case was adjourned to 3 August 2026 for further proceedings.