In the ongoing murder trial of Abdul Kpaka, who is accused of killing his girlfriend, Sia Fatu Kamara, Justice Alhaji Momoh Jah Steven has ordered that the accused be placed in confinement for his safety.
The judge issued the order on Wednesday, 18th September 2024, at the Freetown High Court, where he instructed correctional officers to limit Kpaka’s interactions, allowing him to be seen only when receiving meals.
Kpaka faces two charges: murder and perverting the course of justice. He allegedly murdered Sia Fatu Kamara on 13th August 2024, at Mambo Village, Goderich, Freetown. The second charge accuses him of fabricating evidence on 14th August 2024, and on subsequent days, with the intent to obstruct justice.
During the court proceedings, Kpaka pleaded not guilty to both charges. Justice Stevens noted the existence of the new Criminal Procedure Act of 1965, recently signed into law by the president, although not yet fully in effect.
He explained that while the act had been endorsed, it must be gazetted and distributed before being formally implemented. The judge stated that despite this, he would proceed with the case under the new legal framework.
Justice Stevens emphasised the need for a fair trial, underscoring that justice must be served impartially for both the prosecution and defense. He further informed Kpaka that bail would not be granted during the trial, but promised to expedite the proceedings to ensure a swift resolution.
“I want to make it clear that the court has a duty to ensure that justice is done on both sides,” Justice Steven remarked, highlighting the court’s commitment to fairness.
Addressing the legal teams, the judge requested that notices be sent to the government printing office to ensure copies of the new Criminal Procedure Act are available for reference, so the trial can be conducted in accordance with the latest legal guidelines.
State prosecutor Yusuf Isaac Sesay requested a short adjournment, which was not opposed by the lead defense counsel, Charles I. Bangura. Justice Steven then remanded Kpaka to the Male Correctional Centre and adjourned the case to Thursday, 26th September 2024, for further hearings.
By: Yusufu S. Bangura
