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Following the ongoing judicial review aimed at enhancing access to justice and reducing overcrowding in correctional facilities, 15 inmates were released today, July 11th, 2025, from the Kabala Correctional Center.
The decision followed a judicial review of 20 cases conducted on-site, reflecting a commitment to uphold the rights of detainees, particularly vulnerable individuals in correctional facilities.
The initiative was led by Chief Justice, Komba Kamanda, and facilitated by High Court Judge, Justice Augustine K. Musa. Justice Musa affirmed the importance of the exercise in an interview with Radio Bintumani News, stating that it is part of a continuing commitment to take justice to the people, especially the most vulnerable behind bars.
He emphasized that by bringing judges into correctional centers, the judiciary is not only decongesting prisons but also upholding the fundamental rights of every accused person to a fair and timely trial.
During the review, 15 inmates received their freedom, while sentences were increased for three others due to the severity of their offenses. Foday Conteh had his sentence increased from three to five years for stealing electrical cables intended for the Kabala Government Hospital.
Alie Marah’s sentence was extended from two to three years for the theft of an electricity transformer. Alhaji Mansaray saw his sentence doubled from 12 to 24 months for unlawful possession of “kush,” a prohibited substance. The majority of the reviewed cases involved charges such as larceny, fraudulent conversion, physical abuse, and possession of illicit drugs.
The state was represented by Lawyer A.Y. Mansaray, while Lawyer A.T. Jalloh from the Legal Aid Board provided legal defense for the inmates.
Among those released, Kelvin Smith expressed his gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose, stating, “I’m truly thankful for this opportunity. During my time in prison, I’ve transformed and learned from my mistakes. I am now ready to fully cooperate with the country and contribute positively to society.”
He also extended his thanks to Chief Justice Komba Kamanda and the Government of Sierra Leone for granting him and others a second chance.
Justice Musa acknowledged the vital support from development partners, particularly the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in facilitating the judicial milestone.
