By Mamajah Jalloh
Freetown, Sierra Leone – Forty-seven-year-old businessman Kofi Clarke made his first appearance before Magistrate John Manso Fornah at Pademba Road Court No. 2 on Monday, 26th January 2026, facing two charges: conspiracy to commit a crime and larceny in a dwelling house, contrary to Section 13(a) of the Larceny Act 1916.
According to the particulars of the offence, between 1st November and 24th December 2025 at #14 Priscilla Street, Western Area, Freetown, Clarke allegedly conspired with others to commit larceny from a dwelling house. The second count states that he entered the residence of Rella Mac Boimah and allegedly stole two window cottons, two red cans of Sahion, and other assorted valuable items.
When the charges were read and explained, no plea was taken by the defendant.
Assistant Superintendent of Police Dialla Wellington, representing the prosecution, led the first witness, Rella Mac Boimah, who identified Clarke in court. Mac Boimah, who resides in the UK, said she returned to Freetown on 30th November 2025 and stayed with Clarke’s girlfriend, Kema Thompson.
She explained that she had employed workers to roof and paint her house. While the roofing work was completed, she claimed the painters did a poor job. She discovered that $4,200 had been stolen from her son and immediately informed her mother. Clarke allegedly assured her that the money would be returned and collected $4,100 from her under her instructions. Following this, Clarke reportedly sent a WhatsApp message claiming he had nothing to do with her, herself, or the police officers who later visited his premises.
Police reportedly recovered some of her items, including slace, window curtains, a large bottle of washing conditioner, Sure deodorant, and a white and red Teddy bear. Mac Boimah stated that some provisions were allegedly given to Clarke by his girlfriend.
Defence counsel E.T. Lassayo Esq. requested a short adjournment to continue cross-examination and reiterated previous bail applications on behalf of Clarke.
Magistrate Fornah refused bail, citing the seriousness of the offences, and remanded Clarke to the Male Correctional Centre in Freetown. The case was adjourned to 29th January 2026 for further proceedings.
