A 42-year old herbalist, Ginnah Kanesi was on Monday, 16th January remanded in custody by Magistrate Komba Kamanda of Freetown Court No. 2 on alleged charge of raping an eleven-year old girl.
According to the particulars of offence, the accused on Monday, 19th December 2011 at Grafton Village, ‘carnally knew’ and abused a girl under the age of 13, contrary to Section 6 of the Prevention of cruelty to Children Act, malicious wounding of a girl contrary to law, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm contrary to Section 47 of the Offences Against the Persons Act.
No plea was taken when the charges were read. Prosecuting the matter was Woman Sergeant, 3698 Bangura F. in association with Lawyer A. K. Musa. In furtherance of the matter, the sitting Magistrate enquired from the prosecution whether they were ready to proceed with the matter.
In her response, Woman Sergeant posited that even though the matter is bailable; considering the age of the girl and considering the possibility of the accused interfering with witnesses and the possibility of the accused jumping bail, she urged the Magistrate not to grant bail.
Lawyer for the accused, A S. Ndoleh in his reply implored the Magistrate to grant bail noting that his client has reliable sureties who are willing and ready to stand for him and assured that his client will not interfere with prosecution witnesses.
The Magistrate having considered the submissions of both prosecution and defense, noted that the charges for which the accused is standing trial are severe for which he is considering to uphold the submission of the prosecution by remanding the accused in custody until the next adjournment date. The matter was adjourned to Saturday, 21st January 2012.
By Nancy Koroma
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