Vandy Von Kallon, Research Manager at Maritime Sierra Leone, was remanded at the Male Correctional Centre on Pademba Road after he made his first appearance before Magistrate Mark Ngegba at Court No. 1 on allegation of false representation.
According to the police, accused person Kallon on diverse dates between 6th and 27th January 2021 through Western Union money transfer bureau in Freetown with intent to defraud, conspired with others to defraud Dr. Austin Demby, Minister of Health and Sanitation, of $500 by falsely pretending that he (Kallon) is Leader of Government Business in Parliament, Mathew Sahr Nyuma on the pretext that he wants to take care of his sick mother, knowing the same to be false.
Police further alleged that accused person Kallon on Wednesday 3rd February 2021 at Radisson Blu Hotel in Freetown attempted to obtain Le3 million from Dr. Demby on the pretext that he was sent by Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Honourable Sengepoh Solomon Thomas.
Kallon is faced with three counts charge of conspiracy to commit a felony contrary to law, obtaining money by false pretence contrary to Section 32(1) of the Larceny Act of 1916, and attempt contrary to law. He pleaded not guilty on all charges.
Defence counsel A.B. Moisa requested for bail for his client canvassing his plea on Section 79 (2 and 3) of the Criminal Procedure Act of 1965. Lawyer Moisa told Magistrate Ngegba that his client is not a flight risk, and will avail himself in court whenever needed.
Magistrate Ngegba noted that the offence for which Kallon was charged is a serious one and refused bail. Kallon was remanded, and the case adjourned to 17th February 2021.
SKS/17/02/2021
By sulaiman.sesay@awokonewspaper.sl