By Mamajah Jalloh
Kashopeh Smith and her daughter, Remi Smith, were ordered into remand custody by Magistrate Santigie Bangura of Pademba Road Court No. 2 on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, in connection with the alleged murder of Superintendent Arnold Adeyemi Coker. The mother and daughter duo, who appeared for the fourth time, face multiple charges, including murder, perverting the course of justice, and misprision of felony.
The indictment revealed that Kashopeh Smith allegedly committed the murder on September 2, 2024, at No. 37 Carr Street, Hastings, Freetown. According to prosecutors, following the alleged killing, she attempted to fabricate evidence to mislead authorities. Her daughter, Remi Smith, is accused of concealing the murder and also attempting to obstruct justice.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Joan M.S. Bull led the prosecution’s third witness, Alhaji Macarthy, in his testimony. Macarthy, who has known the accused for over ten years, recounted events of the night in question, stating that he met Kashopeh Smith at Hastings Junction around 3:30 a.m. on September 2, along with two other men. According to Macarthy, Smith allegedly sought his assistance in securing a motorbike and had instructed individuals to monitor the area for witnesses. Macarthy described seeing the deceased’s body being loaded onto a bike outside Smith’s home, confirming the identity as Superintendent Coker.
During cross-examination by defense attorneys C. Campbell and K. Thompson, Macarthy provided further details of his encounter and subsequent interactions with Smith. He disclosed that she later contacted him, cautioning against discussing the incident and hinting at repercussions for those who did.
After hearing testimony, Magistrate Bangura denied bail for the accused and ordered their transfer to the male correctional center in Freetown. The case was adjourned to November 20, 2024, for continuation of proceedings.
