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In a high profile treason trial, Ramatu Kamanda Conteh, the 4th accused and a female correctional center officer, has taken the stand to defend herself. Contch is facing serious allegations alongside others in a case presided over by Justice Komba Kamanda. The case has garnered significant attention due to its implications and the prominent individuals involved.
Contch revealed during her testimony that she had sent text messages to the 1st accused, Amadu Koita Makalo, on November 26th, 2023. The messages were sent to ascertain Koita’s whereabouts in Sierra Leone. Her legal team presented this as the sole evidence against her in the treason trial.
Under cross-examination, Contch denied having any prior knowledge of Koita before 2021. She explained that she had only come to know Koita through her friend, Doré, who introduced them. According to Contch, she had sent text messages to Koita to check on his well-being and to understand why he had not returned to Sierra Leone from Freedom Town.
Contch maintained her innocence, stating she never knew Koita’s intention to involve her in any subversive activities. She further narrated that she was unaware of Koita’s meetings and social interactions with individuals suspected of treasonous activities.
The prosecution, led by AJM Bockarie, presented the text messages as pivotal evidence. The texts were sent via WhatsApp on November 26th, 2023, at 4:42 AM and 10:02 AM. Prosecution also pointed out that several messages were deleted by Contch, raising suspicions.
In addition to the text messages, the prosecution presented audio recordings found on Koita’s phone. These recordings included a conversation between Contch and Koita, allegedly discussing sensitive matters. Contch, however, claimed that the conversation was taken out of context.
In her defense, Contch stated that she was simply checking on a friend and had no knowledge of any treasonous plans. Her defense attorney, Teddy Musa, emphasized the lack of concrete evidence tying her to the alleged conspiracy. Musa argued that the text messages were insufficient to prove treason, calling for the case to be dismissed.
The trial continues with keen public interest, as the court examines the evidence and testimonies. Contch, alongside her co-accused, faces severe consequences if found guilty under the Treason and State Offenses Act of 1965.
