October 6, 2016 By Hawa Amara
Detective Police Constable (DPC) 9972 Nathaniel Samba yesterday testified against a pregnant woman, Fatmata Koroma, who allegedly murdered her co-wife Sama Bangura, who was also ten months pregnant.
The accused is being subjected to a preliminary investigation at the Freetown Magistrates’ Court No.1, presided over by Magistrate Dr. Abou Bhakarr Binneh-Kamara, as to whether she has a case to answer for murder, contrary to the laws of Sierra Leone.
According to the particulars of offence, the accused on Sunday, 19th June, 2016 at the Princess Christian Maternity Hospital (PCMH) murdered the deceased.
While testifying, DPC Samba, attached to the Family Support Unit at the Criminal Investigation Department headquarters, told the court that on 9th June, 2016 a report of domestic violence in the form of physical abuse was forwarded to the office by the deceased.
He said a medical report was issued to her for examination and treatment at the Connaught Hospital.
He said they took a photograph of the deceased which showed a deep cut wound.
He tendered the photo to form part of the court’s records.
However, defense counsel I.P. Mammie objected to tendering of the photo, stating the process was not done in a proper manner as the court has not been informed as to the type of camera used to take the said photo. But his objection was overruled by the magistrate.
The witness further told the court that the photograph was taken by DPC 13168 Bangura S.K. with his mobile phone, while a statement was taken from the deceased, plus two witnesses.
He told the court that he and DPC 14150 S.J. obtained caution statement from the accused, while the matter was on June 20 transferred to the Homicide Division at the Criminal Investigation Department headquarters for further investigation.
The matter continues.