On Wednesday, October 2, 2024, Sheika Fofana, a commercial vehicle driver, testified in the high-profile case involving the transportation and possession of bomb-making materials.

He was the fourth prosecution witness in the case against Hussein Antar, Jamal Antar, and Sulaiman Barrie, who are facing multiple charges related to the alleged transport of these materials into Sierra Leone.

The accused are currently facing thirty counts, including conspiracy, providing funds for transporting chemical weapons, stockpiling chemical weapons without a valid license, and possession of arms manufacturing materials.

According to police reports, it is alleged that between October 1, 2023, and July 9, 2024, the accused conspired to provide funds for the transportation of bomb-making materials without the necessary licenses. Specific allegations indicate that Hussein Antar provided funds to Samuel Marrah for the unlawful transportation of these materials from the Queen Elizabeth II Quay to a residence in the Madina Community of Waterloo.

During the hearing, Fofana detailed his experiences driving a six-tyre Daff truck for his employer, Mohamed Wurie, since 2019. He recalled being hired by unidentified men in early 2024 to transport materials to Waterloo. Upon arrival at Three Mile, he met Jamal and several labourers who helped unload the truck. After the delivery, the accused compensated him for refuelling the vehicle.

Fofana testified that he made another trip to the same location in February and March 2024, during which he was instructed by Jamal to transport a consignment to Liberia.

In cross-examination, defense attorney I. Kamara questioned Fofana about his lack of firsthand knowledge regarding the negotiations between his employer and the accused. Fofana acknowledged that he was only following his boss’s instructions and that he had encountered multiple checkpoints during their trips without being interrogated by security personnel. D Bayoh, representing Barrie, cross-examined Fofana and confirmed that the witness did not know Barrie personally.

Prosecutor Yusuf Isaac Sesay requested an adjournment to allow for the next witness to be called, and Magistrate Santigie Bangura granted the request. The accused individuals were remanded at the Male Correctional Center at Pademba Road in Freetown. The case is scheduled to continue on October 9, 2024.