By Elizabeth Kamara
Francis Turner, a 53-year-old fisherman, appeared before Magistrate Sahr Kekura at Pademba Road Court No. 1 in Freetown, facing three charges, including conspiracy to commit a crime and obtaining money by false pretenses, contrary to Section 32(1) of the Larceny Act of 1916.
According to the prosecution, on June 22, 2024, Turner, with intent to defraud, conspired with unknown individuals to obtain money by false pretenses. He allegedly deceived Augusta Williams, a civil servant, into paying him 66,000 Leones for two town lots of land in Hamilton Village, claiming they were for sale at 140,000 Leones, a claim the prosecution asserts was false.
Led in evidence by Assistant Superintendent of Police Ibrahim S. Mansaray, prosecution witness Augusta Williams testified that she met Turner through Pastor Bundu. On June 22, 2024, Pastor Bundu introduced her to Turner and another individual named Morlia at Hamilton. Turner claimed ownership of a piece of land, stating it was inherited from his father.
Williams emphasized that she made it clear she did not want a problematic land deal. Turner then presented documents to support his claim. Accompanied by
Pastor Bundu, Morlia, and Turner, she visited the land, which Turner identified as his. Upon returning to Morlia’s house, Turner quoted a price of 140,000 Leones for the land.
The following week, Williams paid Turner 68,000 Leones in the presence of Pastor Bundu and Morlia. Turner issued her a receipt for the payment.
During the court session, Turner’s legal representative, C. Jombo, renewed a previous bail application on his behalf. Magistrate Kekura granted bail in the sum of 200,000 Leones or one surety.
The surety must be a Freetown resident, provide a valid ID showing their address, and prove employment at a recognized institution. Bail approval is subject to verification by the Deputy Assistant Registrar.
The case has been adjourned to January 29, 2025, for further proceedings.
