In the ongoing trial for the failed November 26th, 2023 coup attempt in Freetown, a forensic analyst presented mobile phone evidence allegedly linking the accused to the plot.

Inspector Mohamed Jusu, the thirtieth prosecution witness, testified about examining phones belonging to Amadu Koita (the first accused), Mohamed Jalloh, Ramatu Kamanda Conteh, Alima Hassan Bangura, and others.

Jusu explained retrieving data using phone identification numbers and transferring WhatsApp messages, call logs, and screenshots to a computer for analysis. He further revealed obtaining and analyzing call logs from Africell and Orange mobile networks.

Inspector Jusu highlighted a message found on Koita’s phone allegedly stating, “We should attack the Western Area and proceed to the lodge.”

Jusu noted Ramatu Kamanda Conteh sending messages to Koita between November 26th and 28th, 2023, with no response from Koita.

The analyst reported Koita receiving and making numerous calls, including conference calls with other accused individuals.

On November 26th, Koita reportedly received messages from Mohamed Woodie (the seventh accused) stating his attempt to reach the lodge failed and another message mentioning “the man would have escaped.”

Jusu presented evidence of messages and a voice note from a convicted individual named Alhaji Koroma, allegedly pleading with Koita for help as they were “under lock” with limited weapons.

The prosecution requested and received an adjournment for Inspector Jusu to continue his testimony on May 15th, 2024.