By: Alimatu Kargbo
The High Court of Sierra Leone, sitting in Freetown, has issued a bench warrant for one Abu Sesay after he failed to appear in court to answer to serious sexual offence charges.
According to court records dated 8th September 2025, Abu Sesay is facing two counts under the Sexual Offences Act of 2012 as amended.
Count One states that the accused allegedly met a 9-year-old child, Mariama Jaward, on 30th May 2025 in Freetown with sexual intent, contrary to Section 23(1)(a) of the Act.
Count Two alleges that on the same date and location, Abu Sesay engaged in sexual penetration with the child, contrary to Section 19 of the Sexual Offences Act 2012, as amended in 2019.
During proceedings, State Prosecutor R.B. Harleston informed the court that the accused has consistently failed to appear, prompting an application for a bench warrant.
Presiding Judge, Justice Mustapha Mohamed Bawoh, granted the application and ordered that the accused be apprehended wherever he is found. The court further stated that anyone, including the victim’s father who was present in court, should immediately report his whereabouts to the police.
The matter has been adjourned to 14th April 2026 for further hearing.
