A salesman provided key testimony against Claude Cambell Junior, who falsely identified himself as a lawyer, during a court session on Tuesday, July 16, 2024. Cambell is facing charges of obtaining money by false pretense, contrary to Section 32(1) of the Larceny Act 1916.

Cambell appeared before Magistrate Santigie Bangura of Pademba Road Court No. 2, accused of defrauding Daniel Gbembo of 401,330 leones on April 20, 2024. Cambell had promised to supply 400 bags of cement, half a ton of iron rods, 1,000 hardboards, and 45 liters of varnish.

Prosecution witness Emmanuel Babadie, a salesman residing at Old Camp Grafton, testified against Cambell. Babadie recognized the accused as “Barrister Claude Campbell” and recounted the events leading up to the fraud.

On April 20, Babadie was at Gbembo’s shop when Cambell arrived, claiming to have a client with building materials for sale. Cambell presented receipts for cement and later delivered 1,000 hardboards, five and a half tons of iron rods, 45 liters of varnish, and 2,400 bags of cement. However, the police soon arrived at the shop, declaring the materials stolen and seizing several items.

Babadie testified that he saw Cambell collect money from Gbembo on multiple occasions, signing for these transactions eleven times. He identified the signed documents in court. Despite the payments, Gbembo never received the promised materials or a refund, with losses exceeding 400,000 leones.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Sorie Conteh supported the prosecution, while defense counsel S. Sall Esq cross-examined Babadie and applied for a review of Cambell’s bail conditions. Magistrate Bangura granted the application, adjourning the case to August 1, 2024.

This testimony sheds light on the fraudulent activities of Cambell, highlighting the necessity for vigilance and thorough verification within Sierra Leone’s business transactions.