A Nigerian businessman, Momodu Rakib, has been remanded in custody following his initial appearance at Pademba Road Court No. 1 on Thursday, October 3, 2024, where he faced multiple charges related to alleged cocaine trafficking.

Rakib, a prominent figure in business, is accused of five serious offenses involving the possession, transportation, and commercialization of prohibited drugs.

The charges stem from an incident on September 14, 2024, at the Freetown International Airport in Lungi, where Rakib was reportedly found with 20 pellets of cocaine.

According to the prosecution, the businessman engaged in illegal activities concerning the handling and trafficking of the drugs on the same day.

Despite the charges being read in court, Rakib did not enter a plea. State prosecutor I.A. Kamara Esq. requested an adjournment to allow further discussions with the key witness in the case.

Magistrate Sahr Kekura, presiding over the hearing, denied Rakib bail and ordered his remand at the male correctional facility in Freetown.

The case has been adjourned to October 8, 2024, for further proceedings, with the court expected to hear additional evidence surrounding the allegations.