The state has requested the transfer of the high-profile kush manufacturing case involving Momoh Andrew Jah and three others to the High Court for trial, citing substantial evidence already presented before the Magistrate Court.
State Prosecutor Idrissa Kamara made the application before Magistrate Mustapha Braima-Jah on Wednesday, June 11, after leading four witnesses in the ongoing Preliminary Investigation.
Kamara informed the court that the prosecution’s fifth witness—an exhibit clerk—would not testify at this stage but is expected to present remaining exhibits once the matter is committed to the High Court.
The accused—Momoh Andrew Jah (38), Daniel Kamara, Zainab Kamara, and Thomas Leigh Koroma—face a total of thirteen charges, including manufacturing, producing, and transporting prohibited drugs without lawful authority, along with related offenses.
Recapping key testimony, Prosecutor Kamara said the first witness, Detective Sub-Inspector Bhonko Andrew of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit, testified that on November 20, 2024, a team of officers responded to reports of an explosion at 66 Kanu Drive, Temne Town, Allen Town.
The building, which sits next to the Baptist Junior Secondary School, allegedly emitted hazardous substances into the nearby school compound, causing some pupils to lose consciousness.
The detective explained that concerned school authorities and community stakeholders alerted the police, prompting a rapid response to de-escalate tensions after members of the public began hurling objects at the building. Upon arrival, officers forced their way into the premises, arrested the four suspects, and recovered several items, including three vehicles, a motorbike, a generator, Le857,000 (SLL) and $200 (USD), believed to be linked to the alleged drug operation.
However, defence counsel M.S. Bangura raised objections to the prosecutor’s reference to the anticipated testimony of the exhibit clerk. He argued that discussing evidence not yet tendered in court amounted to speculation and undermined the principle of a fair hearing. Bangura contended that if the prosecution had concluded its presentation, it should formally close its case rather than make forward-looking assertions.
The matter is scheduled to continue on Friday, June 13, 2025, as the court considers whether to grant the prosecution’s request to advance the case to the High Court.
It’s really good that we are seeing actions taking place concerning drugs importers or manufacturers, but I want to know as to what action has been taking in relation to the Euro drug traffic that is residing in Bio’ house or in relation with her daughter. Is that matter going to be swept under the carpet? What are the vindications that this government is truly serious in tackling drug carters when the one underneath them is not considered as an important issue. Clean your house first before focusing on others.