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Lamin Bangura and Amidu Kamara have been remanded in custody after appearing before Magistrate Sahr Kekura at the Pademba Road Court No.1 on charges of sacrilege, following accusations of stealing various properties belonging to the Glory of God Prayer Ministry Church.
The alleged theft occurred on Friday, August 16, 2024, at the church’s premises located at No. 9 Lumley Road, Wilberforce, Freetown.
According to the prosecution, the stolen items included a computer monitor valued at Le3,450, a ceiling fan valued at Le600, a pot worth Le280, a flash drive valued at Le250, a roll of Ashobi cloth worth Le2,500, and an aluminum offering box valued at Le5,000.
The total value of the properties allegedly stolen is estimated at Le12,080, all of which were owned by the church.
The case was brought to light by the second prosecution witness, Isaac Sam King, who testified in court, led by Sergeant 8979 Bangura I.S. King, who also serves as a member of the church, stated that both accused individuals had been working as cleaners for the church when the incident took place.
On the day of the theft, King received a report from another church member regarding the break-in, prompting him to rush to the church, where he discovered a large crowd gathered at the entrance.
Upon arriving at the scene, King was informed that Bangura and Kamara had broken into the church and stolen several valuable items.
By the time King arrived, both suspects had already been apprehended by local community members. He proceeded to inspect the damage to the church and notified the pastor before reporting the matter to the Lumley Police Station.
During the court proceedings, both accused cross-examined the witness. However, the second accused, Kamara, chose not to ask any questions.
Neither of the defendants was represented by legal counsel during the hearing. After reviewing the testimony and evidence presented, Magistrate Kekura denied bail for both Bangura and Kamara, ordering their remand at the Male Correctional Center. The case has been adjourned to September 30, 2024, for further hearing.
The incident has drawn concern from members of the church, with many expressing disappointment over the betrayal of trust by individuals who were employed to help maintain the sanctity of the church.
