James Conteh, also known as James Okey, was allegedly butchered to death on March 1st, 2024, at Ascension Town Cemetery in Freetown. Six individuals now stand accused of conspiracy and murder in connection with the case.

The harrowing details emerged today as Aminata Lansana, the victim’s mother, became the first witness in the ongoing trial. Lansana, a resident of Kingtom and cookery seller by trade, recounted the shocking phone call informing her of her son’s demise.

Lansana recounted receiving a phone call from an unknown person on March 1st, informing her of her son’s death at the cemetery. Though she rushed to the scene with neighbors, her sisters advised against viewing the body due to its brutal state. Lansana then sent her sisters, Angela and Jwendeh Kamara, along with her two other sons, to report the incident to the police.

Police allege that Hassan Kamara (“Shine Face”), Brima Kamara, Brima Tarawallie, Abu Bakarr Kamara, Samuel Turay, and Fatmata Turay, all residents of Freetown, conspired with unknown others to commit the crime.

The emotional testimony was disrupted by objections from the defense counsel. The prosecution, led by Chief Superintendent of Police (ASP) Juan Bull, requested an adjournment to confer with Lansana.

Magistrate Sahr Kekura of Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 1 granted the request and remanded all six defendants in custody. The case is set to resume on Friday, April 19th, 2024.