John and Four Others v The State

Facts

A gang robbed a lodge in Freetown. An elderly man was pinned down and his son was forced at knife-point to hand over money. One appellant had solicited the robbery and was present.

Issue

Was the one who solicited and was present a principal? Was the robbery aggravated?

Held

Yes to both. A person who solicits a crime and is present when it is done is a principal. Convictions for robbery with aggravation were upheld.

Principle

Solicitation plus presence makes a principal; robbery is aggravated where offenders are armed or act together.

Why it matters

A leading local authority on both parties and robbery.

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