The murder trial of Abdul Rahman Jalloh has concluded with a split verdict announced by Justice Abdule Sheriff. After months of emotionally charged testimony, the jury deliberated and returned with a decision.

Prosecuted by State Counsel Andrew Fafay Kamara and defended by lawyer A. Gowa, Jalloh faced charges for the murder of 21-year-old Mohammed Juldeh Jalloh, in a case marked by a tragic love triangle.

The incident occurred on the night of August 17, 2024, in Nyandeyama, Kenema, where a deadly confrontation unfolded between the accused and the deceased, both linked to a young woman, Fatmata Sow. Initially a suspect, Fatmata was later released and served as a key witness, having been the only other person present during the incident.

During her testimony, Fatmata recounted the fateful night, stating that she was with Abdul Rahman when they heard a knock at the window, followed by another at the door. Upon checking, they found Mohammed Juldeh Jalloh, her other romantic partner.

Related News

Fatmata described how Abdul Rahman became visibly enraged, pushed her back inside, locked the door, and stepped out. Moments later, a fight erupted between the two men. Though she attempted to separate them, she was forcefully pushed aside by the accused and did not witness the actual killing.

After the altercation, Abdul Rahman returned home with muddy feet and rushed to clean himself in the bathroom. When Fatmata asked about Mohammed Juldeh Jalloh, he remained silent and expressed an urgent need to travel to Liberia the next day, raising serious suspicions.

In his defence, Jalloh claimed he had never seen the deceased and was in bed during the incident, despite relying on Fatmata’s account.

The prosecution also presented evidence from Dr. Simeon Owizz Koroma, Chief Pathologist of the Republic of Sierra Leone, who concluded that the deceased had died from manual strangulation, multiple fractures, and visible fingernail marks, indicating a brutal and intentional killing.

In his closing remarks, Justice Abdule Sheriff highlighted the consistency and emotional weight of Fatmata’s testimony as well as the forensic evidence. He urged the jury to carefully evaluate the credibility of both sides.

After deliberation, the jury returned with an 8-3 split verdict. In accordance with Section 203(4) of the Criminal Procedure Act of 1965, which allows for a majority verdict in criminal trials, the court accepted the decision.

The judge then stated, “Abdul Rahman Jalloh, you have been found guilty of the offence of murder. You are hereby sentenced to life imprisonment.”