Magistrate George B. Samai of the Kambia Magistrate Court has committed to Port Loko High Court the cases of alleged manslaughter, relating to the deaths of Kadiatu Bangura and Salamatu Jalloh in the Bondo society bushes of Kabailor and Bubuya Villages.

Magistrate Samai in his ruling noted that all accused persons are charged with conspiracy and manslaughter, both of which are serious violations of the law. Given the severity of the charges and the substantial penalties they carry, the accused did not enter a plea.

Magistrate Samai also stated, the court has only conducted a Preliminary Investigation, adding that the prosecution presented its case, calling five factual witnesses, which include one formal witness, and two medical practitioners, alongside submitting various exhibits as evidence.

While making clarifications on the preliminary investigation in the Magistrate Court, he stated that all prosecution witnesses were cross- examined by the defense before the prosecution rested its case. Following this, the defense, represented by their legal counsel, applied for the discharge of the accused.

Magistrate Samai however, denied this application, informing the defense that the case would proceed to the High Court, where the final judgment will be made. Despite their disappointment, the defense requested bail for the accused.

Recognizing the accused’s consistent attendance at all court proceedings, Magistrate Samai granted bail. The case has now been transferred to the High Court in Port Loko, where hearings are expected to commence in the coming months.

Following the ruling, State Counsel Lawyer Tenneh Tonia Smart, Esq., expressed her satisfaction, describing the commitment to the High Court as a significant achievement for the State. She emphasized her confidence that justice will be served for the victims and affirmed her commitment to diligently preparing for the upcoming High Court hearings.

Mr. Ishmael Cole, Programme Manager, Forum Against Harmful Practices (FAHP), expressed the organization’s dedication to ending Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Sierra Leone. Mr Cole said “we must not forget that two young girls died, their lives taken in a very brutal manner.”

He regarded this case as a crucial step towards that goal, expressing gratitude the many victims and survivors of FGM who voices have been heard today for the first time. He thanked the court and the process for being on the side of justice. Mr Cole also thanked Irish Aid the donors for their unwavering support in making it possible to see an end to FGM in Sierra Leone a reality.

“This is the first FGM-related case to reach the High Court level. It marks a significant milestone for our organization, and we are committed to seeing it through to the High Court,” he stated.