Wife in Remand For Allegedly Set Husband on Fire

Hawanatu Hawa Koroma, the wife of NABIEU Bangura who allegedly set her husband on fire, appeared in Pademba Road Court No. 2 yesterday and was remanded into custody. The Police Officer prosecuting the accused provided crucial testimony in the murder trial that occurred at their Leicester Peak residence in November 2024.

Koroma is facing one count of murder for allegedly killing her husband, Nabicu Bangura, on November 22, 2024, at their residence near Leicester Peak Junction, Hill Station, Freetown. During the court session, the prosecution witness Saidu Bangura, the deceased’s younger brother, provided significant testimony. He recounted receiving a phone call from a man named Moses Kamara, who informed him of his brother’s severe injuries from burning.

Upon arriving at Connaught Hospital, Saidu stated that Nabicu revealed to him that it was his wife, Hawanatu, who set him on fire. According to Saidu, the incident arose from a heated discussion after Nabieu returned home from work, during which his wife accused him of infidelity.

Saidu detailed how Nabicu tried to avoid confrontation by sleeping in his shop. However, while he was asleep, Hawanatu allegedly doused him with a flammable liquid, ignited it, and locked the door. Neighbors came to Nabieu’s aid, breaking down the door and taking him to the emergency hospital, where he was later transferred to Connaught Hospital for further treatment.

Saidu mentioned that medical professionals reported Nabieu had suffered 90% burns and, after a week of hospitalization, succumbed to his injuries. He confirmed his presence during the postmortem examination and the submission of photographs of his brother’s remains as evidence to the court.

During the proceedings, the accused, who was not represented by legal counsel, did not ask any questions of the witness when given the opportunity. The case has been adjourned until January 28, 2025, with Hawanatu Koroma being remanded in custody.