Barma Malekebu, a US national, was found in possession of arms without a license. Following a thorough investigation and legal process, the case of The Inspector General of Police (IGP) versus Barma Malekebu concluded with a verdict.
Barma Malekebu faced several charges related to the unlawful possession, concealment, importation, and transfer of small arms. The charges brought against him were as follows:
Unlawful Possession of Small Arms without a License: Contrary to Section 11(i) of the Arms and Ammunition Act No.9 of 2012.
Having in Custody of Small Arms without a License: Contrary to Section 11(i) of the Arms and Ammunition Act No.9 of 2012.
Unlawful Concealment of Arms: Contrary to Regulation 22 of the Arms and Ammunition Regulations of 2014.
Importation of Arms and Ammunitions: Contrary to Regulation 16 of the Arms and Ammunition Regulations of 2014.
Transfer of Small Arms to Sierra Leone without a License: Contrary to Section 18(i) of the Arms and Ammunition Act No.9 of 2012.
According to the allegations, on June 7, 2023, Barma Malekebu, an American citizen, was arrested by the National Revenue Authority (NRA), Customs Department, and a team of security officials. The arrest took place at the Lungi International Airport, after the arrival of passengers from onboard Brussels Airline. Baggage scans revealed that Malekebu was in possession of three small arms, specifically model G-3, with the following serial numbers: ADO37731, AD45627, and ADO45497. Additionally, he was found to have one hundred live rounds and one black bandaria, all without lawful authority.
During his initial appearance at the Magistrate court, Barma Malekebu pleaded guilty to the charges brought against him. Subsequently, the court considered the evidence, testimonies, and the defendant’s plea.
After careful consideration, the court rendered its judgment. Barma Malekebu was convicted on counts 1, 2, and 4 and received a one-year imprisonment sentence for each count, to be served concurrently. Additionally, he was convicted on counts 3 and 5 and received a six-month imprisonment sentence for each count, also to be served concurrently. As a result, Malekebu will serve a total of two years in custody at the Pademba Road Correctional Center.
The sentencing of Barma Malekebu highlights the seriousness of unlawfully possessing arms without a license. The legal process followed in this case demonstrates the commitment of the justice system to ensure the safety and security of the general public.
