Abu Bakarr Turay, identified as a driver, is currently in custody at Pademba Road Prison under allegations of possessing Kush, a dangerous substance associated with recent youth fatalities.
Authorities claim that on August 6, 2023, at Old Railway Compound in Freetown, Turay was discovered in the possession of 351 packaged items suspected to be "Kush."
During a hearing at Ross Road Court No. 1 in Freetown, Detective Inspector Alpha Umar Jalloh testified before Magistrate Sahr Kekura. Jalloh recounted that he and fellow officers were conducting a patrol on Jenner Wright Road, Upgun, where they encountered a makeshift structure suspected to be a ghetto. Jalloh stated, "Upon entering the ghetto, most individuals dispersed, but we apprehended the defendant along with 352 wrapped substances believed to be Kush."
Turay was subsequently taken to Ross Road Police Station and held there until the case was presented in court. Detective Jalloh further explained that Turay was transferred to the Criminal Investigations Department for questioning in connection with the allegations.
Prior to this, Detective Jalloh had prepared a detailed report outlining his findings regarding the alleged offence. This report was presented in court as evidence for the case record.
Although Turay was not represented by legal counsel, he was given the opportunity to cross-examine the witness. However, he informed the Court that he had no questions to ask.
Magistrate Kekura approved a request to issue a subpoena for the investigating officer's presence as a witness in the court proceedings. The accused was remanded in custody, and the case was adjourned until September 5, 2023, for further proceedings.