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On Monday, July 29, 2024, the treason trial of former Sierra Leonean military officer George Adams was heard before Magistrate Santigie Bangura at Pademba Road Court No. 2.
Adams faces charges, including treason, misprision of treason, and murder, all stemming from an alleged failed coup d’etat in November 2023.
The prosecution, led by State Prosecutor Yusuf Isaac Sesay Esq., presented evidence alleging that Adams, on November 11 and 26, 2023, conspired with unknown individuals to overthrow the government of Sierra Leone by unlawful means.
It is further claimed that between November 5 and 26, 2023, Adams and his co-conspirators planned to take control of key military installations, including the 5th Infantry Battalion Headquarters at Wilberforce Barracks, the 3rd Infantry Brigade Headquarters, and the Sierra Leone Correctional Centers in Freetown.
The indictment detailed that Adams and his associates violently attacked and broke into the Male and Female Correctional Centers in Freetown, unlawfully releasing inmates. Additionally, it was alleged that Adams, aware of treasonous activities by individuals such as Amadu Koita Makalo and Captain Jalloh, unlawfully concealed their actions.
Another charge against Adams includes the murder of Obi Isaac Johnson on November 26, 2023, at Pademba Road Correctional Center. This charge falls under the offenses against the Persons Act of 1861, which has been amended by the Abolition of the Death Penalty Act 2022.
When the charges were read in court, Adams did not enter a plea. Prosecutor Sesay concluded the prosecution’s case, stating that sufficient evidence had been presented. Magistrate Bangura, after reviewing the evidence, expressed satisfaction that the prosecution had established a prima facie case against Adams. Consequently, he committed Adams to the High Court of Sierra Leone for a proper trial.
