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Christian Paul, identified as a farmer, was accused of obtaining NLe 81,000 under pretenses in an alleged fraudulent car repair scheme. Magistrate Sahr Kekura, presiding at Pademba Road Court No.1 in Freetown, granted bail to Mr. Christian Paul.
The prosecution asserts that between October and November 2024, in Brookfields, Freetown, Mr. Paul allegedly misrepresented his ability to repair a Mercedes-Benz GL450, registered as AXI 424, thereby defrauding Mr. Emmanuel Mannah of the stated amount.
Defense counsel, A.M. Bayoh, argued for his client’s release, highlighting Mr. Paul’s status as a local businessman with established community ties and credible sureties, further noting Mr. Paul’s voluntary appearance and lack of intent to evade legal proceedings.
The prosecution, led by I.S. Mansaray, acknowledged the absence of a formally filed supporting affidavit, which currently limits the available evidentiary material.
Mr. Emmanuel Mannah, the complainant, testified about an initial payment for engine repairs, followed by additional payments based on Mr. Paul’s claim regarding the unavailability of local car parts. Mr. Paul admitted to receiving these payments, asserting that the vehicle had been repaired and tested.
Magistrate Kekura, after reviewing the testimonies, granted Mr. Paul bail set at NLe 100,000, requiring two sureties with established residency and identification within the court’s jurisdiction.
The proceedings have been adjourned to June 4, 2025.
