The High Court in Freetown has sentenced two customs officers to three years’ imprisonment each for soliciting and accepting a bribe of Le 2.5 million (old leones) to facilitate the clearing of a shipping container at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay.

Honourable Justice Aiah Simeon Allieu, a Court of Appeal Judge sitting as a High Court Judge, found Akmed Karim and Mary Banya guilty on two counts of corruption offences under the Anti-Corruption Act No. 12 of 2008. The convictions followed a trial in which the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) called ten witnesses to support its case.

According to the prosecution, on 28 February 2019, the two officers demanded Le 2,500,000 from Sigismond Tommy Mei to fast-track the release of a 40-foot container belonging to Juan Ruiz, an American businessman operating in the export of sand-based minerals. The money was allegedly solicited without lawful consideration.

Both Karim and Banya pleaded not guilty, denying any involvement in the alleged bribery. However, the court heard testimony from key witnesses, including Mei, an Operations Assistant at Bollore Logistics, who stated that he was present when both officers demanded the money as a condition for releasing the container. Juan Ruiz also testified, describing the circumstances surrounding the shipment and the clearing process.

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Lucy Kabba, an investigator with the ACC’s Freetown office, told the court that investigations uncovered sufficient evidence to warrant prosecution. After evaluating the evidence, Justice Allieu ruled that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt and convicted both defendants on all counts.

During mitigation, defence counsel appealed for leniency, citing personal circumstances. The court was told that Mary Banya is a mother and primary caregiver who had recently lost her mother, while Akmed Karim was said to be ill and nearing retirement. The prosecution, however, urged the court to impose a stiff custodial sentence, arguing that the offences undermined public trust and wasted judicial resources.

In delivering sentence, Justice Allieu noted that although arguments were made for sentencing under the amended 2019 Anti-Corruption Act, the offences were committed under the 2008 Act. He sentenced each convict to three years’ imprisonment or a fine of Le 30,000 (new leones) on each count.

In the same proceedings, a third customs officer, Momodu Allieu Sow, faced similar allegations involving Le 3,000,000 purportedly solicited to undervalue a boat at the port. However, Justice Allieu acquitted and discharged Sow, ruling that the prosecution failed to establish its case against him beyond reasonable doubt.

The case underscores ongoing efforts by the Judiciary and the Anti-Corruption Commission to address corruption within public institutions, particularly at key revenue points such as the nation’s ports.