By Fatima Kpaka
Emma Coker and Abdulai Khemolia made another court appearance on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, before Magistrate Mustapha Braima Jah at Pademba Road Court No. 1, facing allegations of assaulting and murdering Mohamed Conteh.
During the hearing, Prosecutor ASP Ibrahim Mansaray stated that the witness had previously given testimony and was due for cross-examination. However, the defense had requested an adjournment at the last sitting. The witness later fell ill and has since been unable to attend court.
Defense counsel Kamara emphasized the seriousness of the charges against his clients and voiced frustration over the delay in the trial. He noted that the witness had been absent for five consecutive weeks, leaving his clients in custody since February 2025.
Magistrate Jah acknowledged the gravity of the case, stating that he intended to conclude proceedings within ten working days.
The prosecutor requested another adjournment, confirming that the absent witness would be the final testimony needed for the case. Following this, Magistrate Jah ordered Coker and Khemolia to remain in remand, adjourning the matter until Friday, June 13, 2025, for cross-examination.
The defendants are facing two serious charges:
– Conspiracy to murder, under Section 4 of the Offenses Against the Person Act of 1861
– Murder, contrary to law
According to the charge sheet, Emma Coker and Abdulai Khemolia allegedly conspired to murder Mohamed Conteh on Sunday, December 22, 2024, at Banana Water, Freetown.
The case continues as legal arguments unfold in court.