The prosecutor in the treason case involving Captain John Conteh (alias Caesar) has reported that a key witness, a lead cyber analyst, is unavailable due to an official assignment.
In response, Justice Stevens emphasized the importance of the case and urged the prosecutor to ensure that the witness prioritizes the trial.
Justice Stevens reiterated that this treason case is high-profile and that the witness must make it a priority to appear in court and testify.
Captain John Conteh initially appeared in court on March 11, 2025, to answer to two counts of treason, contrary to Section 3(1)(a) of the Treason and State Offenses Act of 1963, as amended. The charges involve concealing knowledge of treasonous activities.
According to the prosecution, between June 24, 2023, and June 29, 2024, in Freetown, the accused allegedly planned to overthrow the government of Sierra Leone by unlawful means. The second count states that between January 1 and April 16, 2024, Captain Conteh and other individuals were involved in planning to overthrow the government but failed to report this information to the authorities.
The case has been adjourned to March 17, 2025, for further hearing by Justice Stevens.