By: Henry Gboluma
Gbarpolu, Bopolu City- December 20, 2024-The 16th Judicial Circuit Court in Gbarpolu County has sentenced one Chernor Jalloh, a 34-year-old Guinean national, to 15 years in prison for armed robbery.
The decision was made on December 17, 2024, by Judge Wesseh Alphonsus Wesseh, following Jalloh’s guilty plea.
This ruling, made on December 17, 2024, is being hailed by civil society actors as a critical step in promoting justice and safety in rural Liberia.
Legal Context
Under Liberian Penal Law Section 15.32, armed robbery is classified as a capital offense, and individuals convicted of this crime face significant prison time, ranging from 15 to 20 years. Experts say Judge Wesseh’s acceptance of Jalloh’s guilty plea and the subsequent 15-year sentence reflects the seriousness with which the legal system treats such offenses.
The Incident
The crime took place on May 23, 2024, when Jalloh approached Benedict Binda, a commercial motorcyclist, under pretense. Jalloh claimed he needed a ride to transport five bags of peppers to Totota, Bong County.
As Binda carried him on his motorcycle, Jalloh suddenly jumped off while the bike was going down a hill and shot Binda in the back with a single-barrel shotgun, causing severe injuries.
Background relative to Transport Motorcycling Risks in Rural Liberia
Carrying passengers as a commercial motorcyclist in rural Liberia comes with significant risks. Riders often face threats from criminals who may exploit their vulnerable positions by inflicting bodily harm and getting away with their motorcycles. In the worst cases, they get killed with their bikes taken away.
This situation highlights the need for greater awareness and protection for those who provide transportation services in remote areas.
Voices from Civil Society
The court’s ruling has garnered strong support from civil society leaders. Many of whom believe that this latest case, sets an important precedent for dealing with violent crimes.
“This verdict shows that the legal system is working to protect citizens,” said Sylvester Varmah of Citizens Initiative for Dialogue, a local advocacy organization in Gbarpolu.
The ruling sets the bar for how serious these crimes are treated according to Mr. Varmah. Like Varmah, other advocates and local leaders for justice have also voiced their approval.
“We must continue to stand against violence and crime in our communities,” stated Victor Morlu, advisor from the motorcyclist group. “This ruling sends a message that such actions will not go unpunished.”
A Warning to Others
For her part, Madam Lydia Ballah, head of the CSO in Gbarpolu, said, “This ruling makes it clear that armed robbery will be met with serious consequences.”
The ruling, she believes is a step toward ensuring a safer environment for everyone, particularly those who navigate the risks of rural transportation.
Edited: Jesefu Morris Keita
