By Jeneba Conteh
In a gripping courtroom showdown, defense attorney M. Barateh mounted a vigorous cross-examination that scrutinized critical elements of the prosecution’s case against three individuals implicated in the shocking murder of journalist Samuel Brima Mattia at VOPAD Radio Station. The trial, which has captured the attention of the community, revolves around serious allegations of conspiracy to murder, which the defense is steadfastly disputing.
During the proceedings at Pademba Road Court No. 1, the accused—journalist Joseph Mendel Lamin, also known as “Manager Dust,” along with bike rider Morlia Kamara and driver Umaru Timbo—made their fourth court appearance before Magistrate Sahr Kekura. The prosecution contends that the trio conspired with unidentified accomplices to execute the fatal attack on January 15, 2025, at the radio station located in Kissi Town, Waterloo.
In a tense atmosphere, M. Barateh pointed questions toward witness Abubakarr Kargbo, seeking to clarify the defendants’ positions. Kargbo testified that the first accused firmly denied any connection to Mattia’s death, asserting, “I have no arms in the death of Mattia.” When Barateh pressed for clarification, Kargbo confirmed that this statement constituted a clear denial.
The defense attorney then shifted focus to the details surrounding the investigation conducted at VOPAD Radio. Kargbo revealed that there was no physical altercation at the radio station and, notably, nobody was discovered on-site during the incident. Instead, he indicated that Mattia’s remains were located behind the Sierra Leone Correctional Center’s fence in Waterloo, a revelation that raises significant questions regarding the prosecution’s timeline and narrative.
Moreover, Kargbo acknowledged that during his visit to the radio station, the first accused was absent, and he did not perform any scientific analysis of the electric cable implicated in the case. His investigation was limited to collecting statements from the suspects, further suggesting potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
As the courtroom drama unfolded, the witness’s testimony seemed to undermine the prosecution’s claims, highlighting inconsistencies and gaps in the investigation. The proceedings, characterised by intense questioning and critical revelations, have been adjourned until June 3, 2025, for continued hearings. The defence’s aggressive approach underscores the intricate and contentious nature of this high-profile murder trial, leaving the court to navigate the conflicting narratives presented by both sides.
