By Fatima Kpaka
Sierra Leone – August 28, 2025: Brigadier General Albert Sylvester Bockarie of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) has taken legal action against Marwan Malador, accusing him of cyberbullying. The matter was brought before Magistrate Mustapha Briama Jah at Pademba Road Court No.1 on Wednesday, August 27, 2025.
As proceedings commenced, lead defense counsel Charles Isreal Williams raised a preliminary objection before the charge could be read. He argued that the case should not proceed, citing a prior complaint filed by his client, Malador, against Brigadier General Bockarie—alleging that the complainant had failed to honor police invitations for investigation.
Referencing Section 44(3)(a)(c) of the Cyber Crime Act of 2021 and the Supreme Court case State vs. Abraham Lavaly and Nine Others, Williams contended that continuing with the current case would undermine public interest and the integrity of justice. He urged the court to stay proceedings until Brigadier General Bockarie complies with police investigations related to Malador’s earlier complaint.
In response, prosecution counsel Lawyer Daniel Koroma dismissed the defense’s claims, stating that there was no evidence before the court proving that Brigadier General Bockarie had been invited by the police or had refused to appear. He emphasized that the case had been properly investigated and forwarded to court by the Director of Public Prosecution, in accordance with legal procedures.
Koroma argued that the defense’s submission lacked merit and urged the court to proceed with the matter. Magistrate Jah subsequently overruled the objection and ordered that the charge be read to the accused.
However, the prosecution requested an amendment to the charge, prompting Magistrate Jah to express concern over the late preparation of the case file. He emphasized his commitment to justice and efficiency, stating that he would not allow delays to hinder the court’s work.
The matter was adjourned to September 1, 2025 to allow the prosecution time to amend the charge. The accused, Marwan Malador, was granted self-bail pending the next hearing.