Magistrate Johannes Olusegun Wellington of Court No 1 yesterday sent 68 rioters to the Pademba Road Prisons for throwing missiles and disorderly behavior. They are believed to be supporters of some Sierra Leonean musicians Pupa Bajah, LAJ and Kao Denero of the Black Leo fame.
The accused persons were sent to the Pademba Road Prisons on two count charges of riotous conduct and throwing missiles along Kissy Road in Freetown, which left many citizens in agony as they allegedly, lost valuable properties and sustained bodily harm.
The Police Prosecutor told the court that the accused persons plunged the whole city into confusion. He submitted that if the accused were granted bail, there is the likelihood that they will commit the same offence. “Remanding them, will send a strong message to the public”, he said.
However, sympathizers of the rioters mostly friends and relatives were yesterday seen seemingly lobbying court officers for bail and also advising the accused persons to plead guilty before the Magistrate to enable them to pay the fines rather than going to jail.
Sources have also revealed that some of the suspects were allegedly not involved in the riot but the Police had carried out sweeping arrests along Bai Bureh Road, Calaba Town and Fourah Bay Road.
Most of the accused persons who appeared in court yesterday were wretchedly dressed with horrid haircuts and unpleasant body tattoos. However there was no female among the rioters brought to the court yesterday.
Some of the parents were also seen crying bitterly after the Magistrate announced that the suspects will be remanded at the Pademba Road Prisons until the adjourned date.
By Saidu Bah