By Fatima Kpaka
Freetown, Sierra Leone – Magistrate Mustapha Braima-Jah of Pademba Road Magistrate Court No.1 has ordered the committal of journalist Joseph Mendel Lamin and two co-accused persons to the High Court for trial, following allegations linked to the murder of a fellow journalist.
The ruling was delivered on Monday, July 14, 2025, after a preliminary investigation found sufficient grounds for trial. Magistrate Braima-Jah noted that the accused—Joseph Mendel Lamin, Manager of Voice of Peace and Development (VOPAD) community radio, along with Morlai Kamara and Umaru Timbo—face two serious charges: conspiracy to commit murder and murder, contrary to law.
The prosecution presented three witnesses who were cross-examined by defense counsel, M. Baratay. Upon completion of witness testimonies, prosecutors applied for the matter to be committed to the High Court for full trial.
In a no-case submission, lead defense lawyer Musa Beretay argued that the prosecution failed to produce forensic evidence directly linking the accused to the incident, and urged the court to discharge the matter for lack of sufficient proof.
However, Magistrate Braima-Jah ruled that the hearing was part of a preliminary investigation, clarifying that the burden of proof lies with the High Court. He concluded:
“I am satisfied that the prosecution has adduced sufficient evidence for the accused persons to stand trial at the High Court.”
The incident in question reportedly occurred in mid-January 2025 near the VOPAD radio station premises. With the ruling, the three accused individuals will now face trial at the High Court, where guilt or innocence will be determined beyond reasonable doubt.
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