Two defence officials convicted
Two Public Officers of the Ministry of Defence were on Thursday 18th March, 2010 convicted on all counts by the High Court of Sierra Leone presided over by Justice Mary Sey on a three count Indictment. They were jointly charged with; Abuse of Office, contrary to Section 42 of the Anti-Corruption Act, 2008; Abuse of position, contrary to Section 43 of the Anti-Corruption Act, 2008 and Using Office for Advantage, contrary to Section 44 (1) of the Anti-Corruption Act, 2008.
The convicted persons are former Director of Procurement Ministry of Defence, Joe Michael Sewoh and Major Idriss Sonkoi Kamara of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF). Both Accused persons were fined thirty million Leones (Le30,000,000) on each count, cumulatively amounting to ninety million Leones, to be paid by each of them not later than the 7th of May 2010. In the event of failing to pay the imposed fine, each of the accused will serve three (3) years term of imprisonment which will run concurrently, giving an effective term of imprisonment of three years.
In her judgment, the Learned Trial Judge Honourable Mary Sey said the accused knew what they were doing as it was clear from the video evidence tendered and played before the court. Justice Mary Sey said that she found that the Indictment was correct and proper and in conformity with the Criminal Procedure Act of 1965. She further stated that the Prosecution had proven its case “beyond all reasonable doubt†and commended both Counsel for the astute manner in which they had presented their Submissions.
The Anti-Corruption Commission had alleged that the accused Joe Michael Sewoh and Major Idriss Sonkoi Kamara abused their office and position by seeking to influence the successful bidder into purchasing the required supply from the accused.  Â
Ms Glenna Thompson appeared for the State and the accused were represented by Mr. C.F Margai and Mr. R.B Sowa.Â
Glennis Frazer, Communications Officer, ACCStay with Sierra Express Media, for your trusted place in news!
© 2010, https:. All rights reserved.
