In an escalating family dispute between Alfred Kanyako (father) and Robert Kanyako (son), startling revelations emerged during ongoing preliminary hearings. Alimamy Sylva Leigh, the Second Prosecuting Witness (PW2), confirmed that the accused son threatened to burn down his father’s house and vowed to kill anyone obstructing his path.

The accused, Robert Kanyako, now facing charges related to threats to kill and other offenses, was brought to court following a police investigation into the matter. The charges stand contrary to the laws of Sierra Leone.

The charge sheet alleges that on the 24th of October, 2023, at No. 32H Taylor Street, Wellington, the accused threatened to kill his father, Alfred Kanyako, and burn down their residence.

During the proceedings, led by prosecutor Sub Inspector Francis Macaulay, PW2 Alimamy Sylva Leigh identified the accused in the dock through his father.

PW2 recounted the incident, stating that on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, around eight in the morning, he was at home with Augustine Kayoko when Robert Kanyako approached. The accused requested transportation fare to visit his

mother, but when the complainant (father) replied that he had no money to give, the accused erupted in anger and threatened to burn down the house.

According to PW2, the accused claimed he would use two liters of fuel to bring the house down and even boasted about hiring gangs to carry out the act. Furthermore, the witness stated that the accused openly declared his intention to call a close ally who would eliminate any tenant opposing his mission.

Following a confrontation, the accused’s father reported the matter to the Wellington police post, leading to the accused being asked to provide a statement.

In a surprising turn, when the accused was expected to cross-examine the witness, he pleaded with the Bench for mercy, citing the familial relationship with the complainant (his father). Despite the plea, bail was refused, and the accused was ordered to be remanded at the Male Correctional Center on Pademba Road, Freetown.

The court is scheduled to reconvene on the 17th of November, 2023, as it grapples with the complex dynamics of a family dispute turned legal battle involving threats of violence and arson.