Former Military Officer George Adams Remanded on Alleged Treason Charge

Former Military Officer George Adams made another appearance before Magistrate Santigie Bangura at the Pademba Road Court No. 2 on Tuesday. Adams is accused of involvement in a coup attempt on November 26, 2023.

Adams faces three charges: Treason under Section 3 (1a) of the Treason and State Offences Act 1963, Misprision of Treason and Murder under Section 1 of the Offences Against the Persons Act 1861, as amended by the Abolition of the Death Penalty Act 2022.

The charge sheet alleges that on November 11 and 26, 2023, Adams planned to overthrow the Government of Sierra Leone by unlawful means. Between November 5 and 26, 2023, he allegedly conspired with unknown individuals to seize key military and Government installations, including the 5th Battalion Headquarters, Wilberforce Barracks, Cockrill, the 3rd Infantry Brigade Headquarters and the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation.

Further allegations state that on November 26, 2023, Adams and his co-conspirators violently attacked and broke open the male and female correctional centers in Freetown, unlawfully releasing inmates. Between November 23 and 25, 2023, Adams allegedly concealed the commission of treason by individuals including, Amadu Koita Makalo, Leather Boot, Captain Jalloh, and Sorieba Mansaray. Additionally, he is accused of murdering Obi Isaac Johnson at the Pademba Road Correctional Center on November 26, 2023.

State Prosecutor, Yusuf Isaac Sesay, presented a document indicating the Attorney General’s consent to proceed with the case, in compliance with Section 1(2) of the Treason and State Offences Act No. 10 of 1963.

Sergeant 8904, Solomon Amadu, of the Criminal Investigation Department testified as the first prosecution witness. He recalled receiving Adams for treason on March 16, 2024. Amadu and Constable 1717 Amara Dumbuya conducted an interview with Adams on March 17, 2024, in Krio, with the statement recorded in English. The statement, signed by thumbprint and witnessed by Amara Dumbuya, was suspended and resumed on March 27, 2024. The final interview occurred on April 4, 2024, with Inspector Mohamed Kargbo as the recorder.

The caution statements and charge statements were tendered in court and marked as exhibits. Amadu confirmed that Adams’ phone was retrieved and sent for cyber analysis.

Defense Counsel, A. A. Coker, stated that no cross-examination would be conducted at this stage. Adams was remanded, and the case was adjourned to July 9, 2024.