Supreme Court Justice Halts Proceedings In Mercenary Case 

By Comfort M. Johnson

The Supreme Court Chambers Justice, Yamie Q. Gbeisay, has issued a command to Judge Roosevelt Willie of Criminal Court "A" to stop all proceedings related to the case of a Guinean National, Ibrahim Khalil Sherif, who is accused of planning to overthrow the Government of Guinea.

Judge Willie's previous ruling on September 24, 2024, denying bail and suppressing evidence in the case was based on the seriousness of the charges and the need to maintain regional security and stability.

Despite arguments from Sherif's defense team, led by Cllr. Sayma Syrenius Cephus, claiming insufficient evidence and unlawful arrest, Judge Willie determined there was probable cause for the charges against defendant Sherif.

State lawyers were given 72 hours to surrender all evidence, including weapons and cash seized from Sherif, per the court's order. 

However, failure to comply led to Supreme Court Associate Justice Gbeisay halting all proceedings until a hearing can take place on October 18, 2024.

Defendant Sherif who is facing several charges including Armed Insurrection, had been set appealing for release with the support of prominent Liberians serving as human sureties.

But evidence presented by the Ministry of Justice, including cash and a list of supposed arms receipts, raised doubts and prompted the halt in proceedings.

The case of Ibrahim Khalil Sherif, accused of attempting to overthrow the Government of Guinea, remains in limbo pending further court action. 

The defendant is also charged with Criminal Conspiracy, Criminal Solicitation, and Paramilitary Activities.