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A Freetown magistrate has reportedly denied bail to a businessman accused of illegal possession of firearms, ordering him to remain in custody as the court signals a strict approach to weapons-related offences.
Magistrate Brima Jah made the ruling on Thursday, September 3, 2026, after hearing a bail application for Mohamed Ansumana Dabeneh, 55 years old, who faces five counts under Sierra Leone’s Arms and Ammunition Act, 2023.
Court records indicate the charges stem from an August 14, 2026, incident at a property on Kaikai Drive in Jui, Western Area, where prosecutors allege Dabeneh was found with firearms and ammunition without valid authorisation. They further alleged he exercised unlawful control over the weapons.
Prosecutors relied on Section 22(1) of the 2023 law, which requires licensing for the possession and control of firearms and ammunition. Dabeneh denied all five charges when they were read in court.
Defence counsel I. Fofanah, Esq., urged the court to grant bail, arguing that the accused posed no flight risk and would comply with proceedings. The defence also presented sureties to support the application.
However, Magistrate Jah refused the request, citing the seriousness of the allegations. The case was adjourned to September 9, 2026, for further hearing, with Dabeneh remaining in custody.
