Mr. Adekalie Conteh Charged in Alleged Conspiracy to Murder Andrew Mansaray

Mr. Adekalie Conteh, 28, appeared before Magistrate Santigie Bangura at Pademba Road Court No. 2 in Freetown, facing multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit murder. These charges arise from allegations related to the death of Andrew Mansaray, as detailed by the deceased’s sister.

The charges allege that on the specified date in Tokeh Grassfield, Mr. Conteh conspired with unidentified individuals to murder Andrew Mansaray and cause property damage to Francis Lebbie. The prosecution has charged Mr. Conteh under various sections of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861 and the Malicious Damage Act 1861, highlighting the seriousness of the case.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Sorie Conteh introduced the first prosecution witness, Ms. Memunatu Bendu, the deceased's elder sister. She provided a detailed account of the events leading to her brother’s death, expressing deep sorrow as she recounted her interactions with him before his disappearance. Ms. Bendu testified that on the evening of February 9, 2025, she was with her brother at their home.

The next day, after returning from Aberdeen beach, she was informed by a cousin that items, including his mobile phone, had been taken from him. Further alarming news came when Ms. Bendu received a call from her husband on February 11, indicating that Mr. Mansaray was allegedly being held by Mr. Conteh for financial gain.

Deeply troubled by this information, she recounted her anxious wait until she received confirmation of her brother’s death. Upon arriving at the Adonkia police station, she formally identified his body and provided statements to the authorities, documenting the distressing events that have profoundly impacted her family.

The nature of the relationship or interactions between the defendant and the deceased was not disclosed during the initial court appearance. It was only revealed that the defendant had held the deceased hostage prior to the alleged killing. Mr. Conteh did not enter a plea during the proceedings. Defense attorney M.W. Jalloh Esq. cross-examined the witness to identify potential inconsistencies in her testimony. Due to the gravity of the charges and the emotional testimony presented, Magistrate Bangura ordered Mr. Conteh to be held at the male correctional facility in Freetown.

The case has been adjourned until April 4, 2025, to allow for further legal proceedings and the pursuit of justice for Andrew Mansaray and his grieving family.