19-Year-Old Committed To High Court For Burglary & Larceny

By Fatmata Mohamed Bangura
Unemployed 19-year-old, Frank John Langba has been committed to the High Court for trial on charges of burglary and larceny. He made another appearance before Magistrate Sahr Kekura at Pademba Road Court No. 1 in Freetown.
Langba faces one count of burglary and larceny, contrary to Sections 25(1) and 13(a) of the Larceny Act of 1916.
According to the prosecution, the incident occurred on July 2, 2024, at 73 Balla Drive, Regent Road, Lumley, in the Western Area of Freetown. Langba allegedly broke into the residence of Fatmata Binta Bangura with the intent to steal.
He reportedly carted away with one 42-inch plasma TV, two speakers, and cash amounting to NLe1,500, with the total value of the stolen items estimated at NLe6,250.
When the charge was read to Langba, no plea was taken.
Prosecutor Brima Kargbo called three witnesses to testify, including a formal witness who tendered various exhibits linked to the case. Langba, who was unrepresented, cross-examined the prosecution witnesses.
In his ruling, Magistrate Kekura noted that Langba initially denied the allegations but later admitted to the crime. He confessed to entering a church compound, and upon observing that the complainant’s window was weak, he removed it to gain access to the house, where he stole the items.
Magistrate Kekura concluded that sufficient evidence had been established by the prosecution to warrant committal to the High Court for trial. He committed the matter to the High Court under Section 120 of the Criminal Procedure Act No. 32 of 1965.
The accused remains on bail pending his appearance at the High Court.