By Fatima Kpaka
Freetown, Sierra Leone – October 1, 2025 Paul Koroma, a commercial motorbike rider, has been remanded at the Male Correctional Facility in Freetown following allegations of fraudulent conversion. The decision was handed down by Magistrate John Manso Fornah of Pademba Road Court No.2 during proceedings on Wednesday, October 1, 2025.
Koroma faces one count of Fraudulent Conversion, contrary to Section 20 (1) (iv) (a) of the Larceny Act of 1916. The charge stems from an incident on August 17, 2025, in Sumaila Town, Western Area, where he allegedly converted a black Bajaj motorbike—registration number AUR 560 and valued at Le12,000—entrusted to him for safekeeping by Nelson Bundu Bangura.
Led in evidence by Detective Police Constable 18235 Thoronka K.K, the prosecution’s first witness, Nelson Bundu Bangura, recounted that Koroma approached him at his residence seeking assistance with a motorbike. Bangura said he referred Koroma to his neighbor, Mr. John, who subsequently handed over the Bajaj Boxer motorbike through him.
According to Bangura, the agreement was for Koroma to operate the motorbike commercially and remit Le130 daily. However, Koroma allegedly disappeared with the bike and failed to return or provide any explanation. He was later apprehended by his brother and brought to Bangura, but reportedly failed to account for the missing vehicle, prompting a formal complaint at the New England Police Station.
During the hearing, the accused cross-examined the witness. Magistrate Fornah denied bail and ordered Koroma’s remand. The matter has been adjourned to October 9, 2025, for further proceedings.