Drama in Freetown as Brother and Sister Drag Each Other to Court After Public Fight

Drama unfolded at the Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 3 as a brother and sister dragged each other to court, taking on opposing roles as both accused and complainants in an ongoing public affray case.

Suliaman Tarawally and Susan Tarawally appeared before Magistrate Saio Mamakoh Betty Kallon over an alleged fight that occurred on 13 May 2026 at No. 9 Andrew Street, Freetown. The siblings are accused of engaging in a fight likely to cause members of the public to fear, contrary to Section 11 of the Public Order Act No. 46 of 1965.

During cross-examination by defence counsel A.R. Blah, Susan Tarawally told the court she could not recall how long the incident lasted. She confirmed she was at the scene with her brother on the day in question.

According to Susan, Suliaman was coming down the stairs using abusive language. She said she initially ignored him but responded after he pointed a finger directly at her .

Susan confirmed making a statement to the police, which was tendered and admitted into evidence. She acknowledged she and Suliaman were not on good terms and admitted insulting the accused, though she clarified her remarks were directed at his mother and sister.

The proceedings took an unexpected turn when Suliaman Tarawally, who had appeared as the accused, was also treated as a complainant and witness.

The situation grew more complex as counsel A. Mansaray, initially associated with the prosecution, appeared for the defence, while A.R. Blah, who had represented the accused, switched to associate with the prosecution.

Mansaray informed the court that the defence had not been served with the required proof of service. Relying on Section 98(1) of the Criminal Procedure Act 2024, he argued that the prosecution must serve the defence within eight days of the accused’s initial appearance.

Magistrate Kallon, however, gave the prosecution an additional three days to comply, warning that failure could result in the matter being discharged. Before adjourning, she cautioned both siblings to avoid each other and maintain peaceful conduct