By: Rosaline Sesay

In a prominent diamond theft case, a British national and three others were granted bail on August 7, 2024, during a court session at Pademba Road Court No. 2 in Freetown. Magistrate Santigie Bangura set bail at 1 billion Leones for each of the accused.

The individuals involved include 54-year-old British businessman Jihad Basma, along with 49-year-old Sheku Kobba, also known as ‘ID Card,’ and 28-year-old Tamba Lebbie, both of whom are miners. They face charges of conspiracy to defraud, embezzlement, and receiving stolen property. The charges relate to the alleged embezzlement of a 75-carat diamond belonging to Benjamin Meter, which reportedly occurred between May 20 and May 26, 2024, in Woryonteh Village, Kamara Chiefdom, Kono District.

The prosecution alleges that Kobba and Lebbie embezzled the diamond, while Basma knowingly received the stolen gem. During the court session, State Prosecutor Yusif Isaac Sesay requested an adjournment to complete the formal arraignment process. Defense attorney Jessie M. Jengo, representing the accused, petitioned for bail, presenting a medical report for Basma and assuring the court of the accused's local residency and reliable sureties.

Magistrate Bangura granted bail under strict conditions: each accused must provide two sureties, who are required to have assets or business interests equivalent to the bail amount. Additionally, the sureties must submit bank statements, property title deeds, and utility bills.

The bail decision awaits final approval from the Master and Registrar of the High Court of Sierra Leone. The case is scheduled to continue on August 14, 2024.