By Elizabeth Kamara
In a cyberbullying trial, Magistrate Sahr Kekura of the Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 1 in Freetown has issued a bench warrant for the accused, Dura Sapateh Fofana, for failing to appear in court.
The accused faces charges of Cyber Stalking and Cyber Bullying under Section 44(1)(a) of the Cyber Security Act of 2021.
According to the prosecution, on Saturday, June 29, 2024, in the Western Area Judicial District, Fofana allegedly used a WhatsApp account with the name “Dura Sapateh Fofana” to send bullying messages targeting Dr. Brian Conton of Wilkinson Road, Freetown.
The messages, circulated via a computer system or network, were reportedly intended to harm Dr. Conton’s reputation among the public.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Juan Bull appeared on behalf of the state but informed the court that proceedings could not progress in the absence of the accused. Consequently, Magistrate Kekura issued a bench warrant for Fofana and any sureties responsible for ensuring her court attendance.
The matter has been adjourned to December 13, 2024, for further hearing.
