November 8, 2016 By Hassan Gbassay Koroma
The High Court of Sierra Leone yesterday administered oaths to twelve (12) jurors who have been empanelled to help decide the culpability or otherwise of one Alfred Koroma, who allegedly murdered his girlfriend, Sia Nyuma, in February this year.
The accused has been charged with one count of murder.
State Prosecutors, Joseph A.K. Sesay and E. Jalloh allege that the accused person on Sunday, 7 February, 2016 at No.5 Cassava Farm, Juba Hill, in Freetown, murdered Sia Nyuma, 21, daughter of former National Provincial Ruling Council (NPRC) strongman, late Rt. Lt. Col. Tom Nyuma.
Prosecutor Sesay informed the court that he has five witnesses already listed at the back of the indictment plus additional witnesses, including the police officers that investigated the matter.
Admonishing the 12 jurors after they had taken oath, Justice Alusine Sesay urged them to listen carefully when evidence would be adduced in court because at the end of the trial they would determine the fate of the accused.
He told the jurors that the accused is standing trial for a very serious offence and cautioned them against listening to public opinion but evidence that would be adduced in court.
He also urged them to always avail themselves in court throughout the trial and to be on time, while imploring witnesses not to discuss the matter with anyone.
Justice Sesay adjourned the matter to 14 November, 2016 when the substantive trial is expected to commence.