MONROVIA – Controversy has emerged at Criminal Court “C” following serious allegations of jury misconduct in the high-profile US$6.2 million corruption trial involving former Finance and Development Planning Minister Samuel D. Tweah and several former government officials. The allegations surfaced just days after jurors acquitted Tweah and former Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA) Comptroller D. Moses P. Cooper of all charges, a verdict that triggered nationwide debate and political reactions.

The acquittal of Tweah, widely viewed as the central figure in the corruption case, has drawn mixed responses across Liberia. Supporters of the opposition Coalition for Democratic Change celebrated the verdict as a triumph of justice, while critics questioned how key defendants could walk free despite the gravity of the allegations and the joint indictment against all accused officials.

However, the controversy deepened after three jurors formally accused some of their fellow panelists of misconduct during deliberations. According to reports emerging from the Temple of Justice, the jurors alleged that certain colleagues improperly used mobile phones in restricted jury areas and maintained unauthorized communications with individuals believed to be associates of the defendants.

The complaint, filed before Criminal Court “C” through an affidavit, reportedly outlined six separate allegations of misconduct. Although the jurors stopped short of accusing anyone of accepting bribes or exchanging money for the verdict, they claimed that outside communication may have improperly influenced the jury’s final decision, particularly the acquittals handed to Tweah and Cooper.

Judicial sources further disclosed that the allegations were accompanied by documentary evidence intended to support the claims against the accused jurors. The development has intensified public scrutiny surrounding the integrity of one of Liberia’s most politically sensitive corruption trials in recent years.

In response, Criminal Court “C” Resident Judge Ousman Feika has ordered a full investigation into the matter. Judge Feika has summoned all jurors involved in the trial, along with lawyers representing both the prosecution and defense, members of the jury management team, bailiffs, sheriffs, and police officers assigned to the jury quarters to appear before the court on Wednesday, May 20.

The court has meanwhile suspended proceedings into a motion for a new trial filed by former National Security Advisor Jefferson Karmoh and former Acting Justice Minister Nyenati Tuan pending the outcome of the jury misconduct investigation. The hearing on the motion had originally been scheduled for Tuesday, May 19.

The controversial verdict delivered on May 8, 2026, concluded a grueling 46-day legal battle at Criminal Court “C.” The twelve-member jury panel acquitted Tweah and Cooper on all charges, including economic sabotage, criminal conspiracy, criminal facilitation, theft of public funds, and money laundering. Their acquittals immediately became a major political talking point across the country.

At the same time, the jury convicted Tuan on charges including theft of public funds, criminal facilitation, and theft of property, while Karmoh was found guilty of criminal facilitation and criminal conspiracy. Former FIA Director General Stanley S. Ford received hung verdicts on several counts after jurors reportedly failed to reach a unanimous decision regarding his criminal liability.

The latest allegations of jury tampering now threaten to cast a long shadow over the entire trial and could potentially reopen legal and political tensions surrounding the case. With the investigation expected to begin on May 20, public attention is once again fixed on the Temple of Justice as Liberians await answers over whether outside influence compromised one of the country’s most consequential corruption verdicts.

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MONROVIA – A series of audit findings by the General Auditing Commission (GAC) has raised serious accountability concerns over public financial management and higher education reforms during the administration of former President George Manneh Weah, revealing a combined revenue discrepancy exceeding US$2.08 billion alongside weaknesses in the implementation of Liberia’s free tuition policy.

The audit reports, covering fiscal years 2018 to 2024, point to systemic gaps in revenue reconciliation, governance oversight, and policy execution across key government institutions. The findings have intensified public scrutiny over how state resources were managed during the period under review.

According to the GAC compliance audit, approximately US$1.79 billion in revenue recorded in Liberia’s tax administration system could not be traced to the Consolidated General Revenue Account. In addition, auditors identified L$54.3 billion in Liberian Dollar receipts equivalent to about US$293.5 million bringing the total unaccounted revenue to more than US$2.08 billion.

The report indicates that while these revenues were recorded at the collection level, corresponding transfers and deposits into the national account could not be fully verified. This raises concerns about weaknesses in financial controls, reconciliation processes, and transparency mechanisms within the public financial system during the audit period.

Alongside the revenue findings, the GAC also reviewed the implementation of Liberia’s free tuition policy for public universities and community colleges, introduced in 2018 as a flagship education reform intended to expand access to higher learning.

The audit found that although the policy contributed to increased enrollment in tertiary institutions, it was implemented without a comprehensive written framework to guide operations. The report noted that neither the National Commission on Higher Education nor relevant government authorities developed standardized guidelines to ensure uniform application of the policy.

As a result, students across public institutions continue to face various additional charges, which in some cases reportedly exceed the tuition costs the policy was meant to eliminate. The GAC also highlighted inconsistencies in credit hour fees across institutions, ranging between US$2.60 and US$5, contributing to unequal financial burdens on students.

The report further revealed that increased enrollment placed significant strain on Liberia’s higher education infrastructure. Overcrowded classrooms, limited laboratory facilities, and under-resourced libraries were cited as persistent challenges, with some lecturers reportedly handling between 71 and 100 students per class.

Between 2018 and 2023, the Government of Liberia reportedly spent about US$7.4 million on tuition-related support, compensation, and institutional funding under the policy. However, auditors concluded that the expenditure does not align with enrollment data and credit hours recorded across institutions, suggesting inefficiencies in implementation and oversight.

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MONROVIA – Renowned Liberian lawyer and former Solicitor General Tiawan Saye Gongloe has challenged prosecutors at the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission to prioritize preparation, evidence, and professionalism over media attention when handling corruption cases, warning that weak indictments can ultimately undermine justice.

Speaking Wednesday, May 13, during the LACC’s one-day Quarterly Review Session for Prosecutors held at the Commission’s headquarters on Old Road in Monrovia, Gongloe stressed that the success of anti-corruption prosecutions depends not on publicity campaigns but on solid legal work and credible evidence.

“The prosecutor’s greatest weapon is not publicity. It is preparation,” Gongloe declared while addressing prosecutors, investigators, and legal practitioners gathered under the theme, “Widening the Horizon for Effective Prosecution.”

Drawing from his experience as former Solicitor General and former Minister of Labor, Gongloe led discussions on “Preparing a Good Indictment, Presenting Your Evidence, and Proving Your Case.” His presentation focused heavily on the legal and ethical responsibilities prosecutors must uphold when pursuing corruption-related offenses.

He cautioned prosecutors against treating indictments like political statements or media publications, emphasizing that criminal prosecutions must be grounded strictly in law and evidence. “An indictment is not a newspaper article, political speech, press release, or social media post,” Gongloe reminded participants. “It is a formal legal accusation governed by law, evidence, and due process.”

According to Gongloe, a strong indictment must clearly explain the alleged crime, identify the violated law, describe the accused conduct, and establish when, where, and how the offense allegedly occurred. He stressed that prosecutors must also prove criminal intent instead of relying on speculation or public perception.

“In anti-corruption prosecutions, suspicion is not evidence. Media reports are not evidence. Political accusations are not evidence,” Gongloe emphasized. He urged investigators and prosecutors to focus on tracing financial transactions, protecting the chain of custody, verifying documents, and preparing witnesses capable of withstanding courtroom scrutiny.

The veteran lawyer further warned that poorly prepared indictments not only weaken prosecutions but can also embolden impunity. “A good indictment promotes justice. A bad indictment defeats justice and promotes impunity,” he stated, drawing strong attention from participants at the session.

The review session also featured remarks from Alexandra K. Zoe, who underscored the importance of continuous professional development for prosecutors as corruption cases become increasingly complex and sophisticated.

Cllr. Zoe praised the collaboration between the LACC prosecution team and the Ministry of Justice during the recent high-profile Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA) trial involving former senior government officials. While acknowledging that the Commission did not secure all the outcomes it had hoped for, she described the three guilty verdicts obtained in the case as a meaningful step toward accountability in Liberia.

“This result serves as a powerful reminder that the wheels of justice are turning and that accountability is within reach,” Zoe told participants, while encouraging prosecutors to remain committed to strengthening their technical skills and courtroom readiness.

The training also featured presentations from His Honor Ousman Feika, who spoke on effective courtroom trial techniques and case management, and Cllr. M. Wilkins Wright, who guided participants through the complex legal process surrounding appeals and procedural mistakes that can damage cases.

Beyond the presentations, the session created space for open dialogue between prosecutors and oversight commissioners on the daily realities of corruption prosecutions in Liberia. Organizers said the goal was to strengthen coordination, sharpen legal strategy, and build a more unified prosecutorial team capable of effectively confronting corruption nationwide.

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MONROVIA – A confrontation has erupted between the pressure group Solidarity & Trust for a New Day and the Liberia National Police following the international appointment of Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman to a senior leadership role within the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE).

While the Liberia National Police celebrated the appointment as a major international honor for Liberia and a sign of growing global confidence in Coleman’s leadership, STAND sharply rejected the recognition, describing it as an “image-laundering” campaign intended to conceal what it called a troubling legacy of brutality, abuse, and institutional failure under Coleman’s watch.

The controversy began after the Liberia National Police announced Wednesday, May 13, 2026, that Coleman had been formally designated for appointment as Co-Chair of the International Affairs Committee of NOBLE, one of the most influential law enforcement organizations in the United States and globally.

According to the police statement, the appointment will be officially conferred during NOBLE’s 50th Anniversary Celebration and Annual Training Conference scheduled for July 2026 in Dallas, Texas. The communication, signed by Incoming National President Mitchell R. Davis III, praised Coleman for his leadership in modern policing, institutional reform, and international security cooperation.

The LNP described the appointment as a proud moment not only for the police institution but also for Liberia as a whole. Police authorities argued that the recognition reflects Liberia’s increasing role in global discussions surrounding democratic policing, professional law enforcement standards, and international security collaboration.

“This appointment reflects international recognition of Inspector General Coleman’s leadership, experience in modern policing, and longstanding contributions to public safety,” the LNP stated, adding that the role would strengthen security partnerships between Liberia, the United States, and other international actors confronting transnational crime and emerging global threats.

But within hours of the announcement, STAND launched a blistering counterattack against both Coleman and the Liberia National Police, accusing the police leadership of attempting to rehabilitate its international image while serious allegations of human rights abuses remain unresolved in Liberia.

In a statement issued Thursday and signed by STAND Chairman Mulbah K. Morlu, the organization described Coleman’s elevation as “a desperate attempt to cleanse his battered image and manufacture credibility abroad.”

STAND argued that the appointment comes at a time when the Liberia National Police is still facing public criticism over what the group described as a failed attempt to mislead Liberians regarding an alleged ranking in the 2026 World Internal Security and Police Index (WISPI). According to STAND, the police had falsely claimed that the LNP was ranked the 10th best police force in Africa and 70th globally before quietly retracting the statement following public scrutiny.

“The persistent efforts by Inspector General Coleman to elevate his international standing reveal a leadership obsessed with image laundering rather than accountability, justice, and reform,” the statement asserted.

The advocacy group went further by reviving accusations linked to the deadly Kinjor protest incident involving demonstrators protesting against BEA Mountain Mining Corporation over labor conditions. STAND accused the police of using excessive force against unarmed protesters and claimed innocent young Liberians lost their lives while exercising their constitutional rights.

“Those young lives were not lost in conflict; they were murdered by state violence,” STAND alleged. “Their voices were answered not with justice, but with bullets.”

The group also referenced the controversial 2025 death of Matthew Mulbah, a mentally ill citizen whose family reportedly sought police intervention before his death. STAND claimed the incident reflected a broader pattern of brutality and lack of professionalism within the Liberia National Police.

According to the organization, no international recognition or foreign appointment can erase what it described as “the bloodshed, trauma, and painful memories” associated with Coleman’s leadership. STAND further accused the police of failing rape victims and vulnerable citizens while prioritizing international public relations victories.

“A man remembered for brutality deserves accountability, not elevation; justice, not glorification,” the statement concluded.

Despite the growing criticism, the Liberia National Police has continued to defend Coleman’s appointment as a milestone achievement for Liberia’s law enforcement sector. The institution maintains that the Inspector General’s new international role will strengthen Liberia’s participation in global efforts to combat narcotics trafficking, cybercrime, violent extremism, human trafficking, and other transnational security threats.

The post Stand Accuses Police Ig Coleman Of ‘image Laundering’ Over International Appointment As Lnp Defend Move appeared first on Liberia News Network.

MONROVIA – The Liberia National Police has announced a major breakthrough in Liberia’s relationship with the International Criminal Police Organization, revealing that INTERPOL has approved the cancellation and restructuring of hundreds of thousands of euros in outstanding financial obligations owed by Liberia.

In a statement released through the Press and Public Affairs Division, the Liberia National Police disclosed that the decision was formally approved by the INTERPOL Executive Committee following negotiations involving Liberia’s National Central Bureau (NCB–INTERPOL Monrovia) and other government stakeholders.

According to the LNP, official correspondence issued by INTERPOL on April 2, 2026 confirmed that Liberia’s arrears accumulated between 2004 and 2018, totaling approximately EUR 356,554.12, have been canceled under a negotiated debt rescheduling arrangement endorsed during the 228th Session of the INTERPOL Executive Committee held on March 25–26, 2026.

The police authority further disclosed that additional outstanding arrears covering the period from 2019 to 2025, amounting to EUR 301,315, have now been restructured into a four-year repayment arrangement extending from 2026 through 2029.

Authorities described the agreement as a critical financial and diplomatic achievement that will strengthen Liberia’s standing within the global policing community while restoring confidence in the country’s international law enforcement commitments.

“The Liberia National Police views this development as a significant step toward strengthening Liberia’s international law enforcement partnerships, restoring institutional credibility, and reinforcing the country’s operational participation in global policing,” the statement noted.

The LNP emphasized that Liberia’s active participation within INTERPOL remains essential in addressing growing regional and international security threats, particularly crimes that increasingly operate across national borders.

According to the police, stronger collaboration with INTERPOL will improve Liberia’s ability to combat transnational organized crime, cybercrime, narcotics trafficking, human trafficking, terrorism financing, fugitive tracking, and other cross-border criminal activities affecting the West African region.

Security officials also believe the debt relief arrangement reflects increasing international confidence in Liberia’s ongoing security sector reforms and the country’s renewed efforts to maintain responsible engagement within international policing institutions.

“This achievement reflects growing international confidence in Liberia’s security governance reforms and the country’s commitment to responsible institutional engagement within international policing frameworks,” the statement added.

The agreement further commits Liberia to maintaining timely payment of future annual statutory contributions to INTERPOL as well as its financial obligations to the INTERPOL Regional Bureau for West Africa headquartered in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

The Liberia National Police praised the collaborative role played by the Government of Liberia, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, and the National Central Bureau in successfully negotiating the arrangement with INTERPOL authorities.

Officials believe the agreement will improve Liberia’s operational access to global criminal intelligence systems, enhance international investigative cooperation, and strengthen information sharing with law enforcement agencies worldwide.

For years, financial arrears owed to INTERPOL posed concerns about Liberia’s ability to fully maximize its participation within the international policing network. The latest development is therefore being viewed by security experts as an important step toward rebuilding Liberia’s credibility within global security institutions.

The LNP reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, accountability, international cooperation, and strengthening Liberia’s role in global law enforcement operations.

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MONROVIA – Jallah A. Barbu has stressed that Liberia’s quest for genuine national unity cannot succeed without accountability, justice, and respect for the rule of law, warning that unresolved grievances from the country’s civil conflict continue to threaten long-term peace and stability.

Speaking Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at the 62nd National Unification Day Dialogue held at the University of Liberia Auditorium on Capitol Hill, Cllr. Barbu delivered what participants described as a powerful goodwill message centered on justice, reconciliation, and democratic accountability.

The event, organized by the Better Future Foundation, brought together current and former government officials, diplomats, civil society representatives, students, and other national stakeholders to reflect on Liberia’s democratic journey and future national direction.

Addressing the gathering under the theme, “National Unification, Justice, and the Future of Liberia,” Barbu argued that national reconciliation must move beyond symbolic speeches and political rhetoric and instead be grounded in fairness, equality, and strong institutions capable of delivering justice for all Liberians.

“Liberia cannot achieve genuine national unity without justice, accountability, and respect for the rule of law,” Barbu emphasized, adding that many wounds left behind by the country’s brutal civil conflict remain unresolved decades after the war officially ended.

According to the Executive Director, lingering grievances and unaddressed injustices continue to affect victims and communities across Liberia, creating risks for future instability if accountability measures are ignored. He maintained that healing and reconciliation require confronting past abuses rather than avoiding them.

Cllr. Barbu reaffirmed the importance of establishing a War and Economic Crimes Court in Liberia, noting that the process, backed by Executive Order No. 164, should not be viewed as an act of political revenge but rather as a national obligation aimed at strengthening democracy and restoring public confidence in justice institutions.

“The establishment of the court is a national necessity,” Barbu stated. “Accountability is essential to healing victims, deterring future violence, and reinforcing Liberia’s democratic foundation.”

He further argued that economic crimes and corruption continue to negatively impact ordinary Liberians, especially vulnerable citizens struggling daily under difficult economic conditions. According to him, corruption weakens national development and directly affects market women, students, and low-income communities that depend on public services and accountable governance.

Barbu also praised the Better Future Foundation for sustaining national conversations around governance, justice, and civic participation. He encouraged young people and members of the academic community to reject tribalism, promote integrity, and actively contribute to building a more just and accountable Liberia.

“Liberia’s youth and intellectual community must become champions of integrity and national transformation,” he noted, while warning against political division and ethnic polarization that continue to undermine national cohesion.

The OWECC-L Executive Director additionally called for stronger collaboration among government institutions, civil society organizations, traditional leaders, and international partners to advance peacebuilding, justice, and national accountability efforts across the country.

The 62nd National Unification Day Dialogue concluded with renewed appeals for inclusive governance, justice for victims of past abuses, and a collective national commitment toward healing Liberia’s historical wounds while building what participants described as a peaceful, united, and prosperous democratic society.

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MONROVIA – Musa Hassan Bility, political leader of the Citizens Movement for Change (CMC) and Representative of Nimba County District #7, has publicly called on President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to order a comprehensive audit of the National Legislature covering the period from 2018 to 2025, warning that key individuals allegedly linked to past financial abuses are currently serving within the government.

In an open letter released Tuesday, May 12, 2026, Bility accused the administration of protecting individuals he described as beneficiaries of large-scale abuse of public resources during previous legislative periods. According to him, the requested audit is necessary if the government genuinely intends to fight corruption and restore public trust in state institutions.

“Stop shielding those who milked this country and are today wielding power within your Government,” Bility declared in the strongly worded communication addressed directly to President Boakai.

The Nimba lawmaker argued that the proposed audit should focus on activities within the Legislature between 2018 and 2025, a period he described as one of the darkest moments of alleged abuse against the Liberian people. He claimed that many individuals associated with those alleged acts currently occupy influential positions within the administration.

“If you are truly committed to fighting corruption, then order a full audit of the National Legislature from 2018 to 2025,” Bility wrote. He further asserted that the General Auditing Commission Act provides the President with the legal authority to initiate such an audit.

Bility disclosed that his latest appeal was not the first time he had raised the issue. According to him, he previously communicated with President Boakai on the matter last year and also brought the proposal before fellow lawmakers and plenary sessions of the House of Representatives. However, he alleged that repeated attempts to advance the request were blocked by the legislative majority.

“I have written my colleagues and raised this matter before the Plenary several times, but each time, the majority used its power to suppress and kill the request,” he stated.

The CMC political leader criticized what he described as selective anti-corruption efforts, arguing that the government should avoid targeting only certain individuals while allegedly ignoring larger cases of financial abuse involving politically connected figures.

“There is no need to waste our scarce national resources on selective witch hunts disguised as anti corruption efforts while those who presided over the real looting of this country remain protected by political convenience,” Bility wrote in the letter.

The lawmaker further stressed that Liberians are demanding sincerity and consistency from public officials, especially at a time when public confidence in governance and accountability remains under pressure. He urged the President to demonstrate political courage by allowing an independent and transparent review of legislative financial activities.

“Liberians deserve honesty, consistency, and courage in governance,” Bility emphasized, while appealing to President Boakai to act in what he described as the broader national interest.

In one of the most direct portions of the letter, Bility challenged the President to use the audit as an opportunity to restore public confidence in his leadership and administration.

“Do this for us. Do this for your conscience. Do this for the Liberia you always told us about,” he stated, before adding that a transparent audit process could help redeem both the President and his government “in the eyes of the Liberian people.”

The comments come amid heightened national debate surrounding public accountability and financial oversight following the recent release of multiple audit reports by the General Auditing Commission. The commission recently published 26 audits covering government ministries, agencies, commissions, and county administrations, exposing several alleged financial irregularities and increasing public pressure for stronger enforcement of audit recommendations.

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MONROVIA – A newly published audit report by the General Auditing Commission has reportedly uncovered significant financial irregularities involving the Grand Bassa County Authority, with auditors questioning the accountability of more than US$5.2 million and L$149 million during fiscal periods covering 2018 through 2023. The findings are expected to intensify public debate over financial governance and transparency within Liberia’s county administrations.

The audit, conducted under the supervision of Auditor General P. Garswa Jackson, allegedly identified multiple instances where county officials authorized payments without adequate supporting documentation or proof that projects tied to the expenditures were actually implemented. Auditors also reportedly found cases in which management exceeded approved budget allocations without authorization from relevant authorities.

According to the report, several financial transactions reviewed by investigators lacked the necessary records required under Liberia’s public financial management laws. Auditors claimed that in numerous cases, county authorities could not produce invoices, receipts, project completion reports, or other supporting documents to justify substantial expenditures made during the audit period.

The report further raised concerns over procurement and contract management practices within the county administration. Auditors reportedly discovered that some payments were made to companies despite the absence of approved procurement plans or legally required “No Objection” approvals, potentially violating Liberia’s procurement regulations and accountability procedures.

Among the expenditures questioned were fuel purchases, land survey payments, and contractor disbursements linked to projects that allegedly lacked evidence of completion. The audit suggested that some contractors may have received payments for works that auditors were unable to physically verify or confirm through available documentation.

The findings also placed attention on financial contributions made by ArcelorMittal Liberia to the county administration. According to auditors, more than US$167,000 reportedly received from the concession company could not be properly accounted for, further deepening concerns over how externally provided development funds are managed at the local government level.

One of the audit’s most serious allegations involved bridge construction contracts valued at nearly US$1.93 million. The report claimed that the agreements proceeded without obtaining mandatory approvals from Liberia’s Finance and Justice Ministries as required by law. Auditors indicated that bypassing those approvals may have exposed the projects to administrative and legal irregularities.

The audit additionally cited a US$30,000 residential lease agreement allegedly entered into without authorization from the General Services Agency. According to the findings, county authorities reportedly failed to comply with established administrative procedures governing government lease arrangements, raising additional questions about oversight and compliance mechanisms.

The Grand Bassa report forms part of a broader accountability initiative launched by the General Auditing Commission, which on Friday, May 8, 2026 released 26 audit reports covering ministries, agencies, county administrations, commissions, and state-owned enterprises. The commission described the publication as part of renewed efforts to strengthen transparency and improve financial accountability across Liberia’s public sector.

According to the GAC, the audits examined fiscal operations, expenditure management systems, procurement compliance, project implementation, and financial controls within multiple public institutions. The commission stated that the reports have been made available on its official platform to allow public access and review as part of efforts to promote openness in government operations.

In a statement accompanying the publication, the commission explained that many of the audits cover previous fiscal periods and are intended to help clear a backlog of outstanding reviews involving government ministries, agencies, and commissions. The release comes amid mounting pressure from civil society organizations, anti-corruption advocates, and lawmakers demanding stronger enforcement of audit recommendations and prosecution where evidence of financial misconduct exists under the administration of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai.

Among the major reports released by the GAC was a compliance audit examining the reconciliation of government tax revenues collected through transitory and consolidated bank accounts from July 2018 to December 2024. The commission also published audits involving the Ministry of Education, University of Liberia, National Transit Authority, Liberia Broadcasting System, Liberia Petroleum Regulatory Authority, and the Nimba County Social and County Development Funds, reflecting broader scrutiny of public spending and institutional compliance.

Meanwhile, the General Auditing Commission disclosed that more than 50 additional audits have already been completed and are awaiting final conclusion protocols before publication. The development suggests that more revelations concerning financial mismanagement, weak oversight systems, and possible compliance violations within public institutions could soon emerge, potentially increasing pressure on government entities to address longstanding accountability concerns and implement corrective measures recommended by Liberia’s supreme audit institution.

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MONROVIA – The Liberia National Police (LNP) has formally charged 12 individuals allegedly linked to last week’s shocking mob attack at the busy Red Light Commercial District, where a young Liberian woman was violently assaulted, stripped naked in public, and humiliated after being accused of dressing “indecently.” The disturbing incident, which was captured on video and widely circulated across social media platforms, triggered outrage and drew condemnation from human rights advocates and members of the public.

LNP confirmed that the accused individuals have been forwarded to the Monrovia City Court at the Temple of Justice today, May 12, 2026, as investigations continue into the incident. Police say the case remains active and additional arrests are expected as investigators review digital evidence and gather more witness statements connected to the attack.

Providing an official update on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, Inspector General Gregory O. W. Coleman strongly denounced the actions seen in the viral footage, describing the conduct as unlawful, degrading, and completely contrary to Liberia’s constitutional principles and respect for human dignity. He stressed that the behavior displayed by the mob represented a serious violation of public order and the rule of law.

According to the police, preliminary findings based on eyewitness testimonies, video recordings, and statements obtained from individuals including Telewowoyan Flomo and Augustine T. Musa established sufficient grounds for criminal charges against several suspects allegedly involved in the public assault.

The individuals charged include Shelton Dolo, Emmanuel Flomo, Abel C. Dandy, Ernest Koiyan, Lincoln Sungbeh, Prince Saykay, Daddy Stephen, Emmanuel Dee, Joe Roberts, and Eric Gbokolo. Police stated that the defendants are facing multiple criminal offenses under Liberia’s Revised Penal Code.

The charges brought against the accused include harassment, sexual assault, disorderly conduct, simple assault, felonious restraint, recklessly endangering another person, and offensive touching. Investigators noted that the alleged acts violated several provisions of the Revised Penal Code of the Republic of Liberia, particularly sections relating to assault, public disorder, and gender-based abuse.

The police further disclosed that additional suspects identified through ongoing investigations, video analysis, and witness cooperation could also face prosecution, including individuals currently beyond the immediate reach of law enforcement authorities. The Liberia National Police warned that anyone linked to the attack would be pursued and prosecuted in keeping with the law.

Beyond the criminal dimension of the case, the Liberia National Police emphasized that incidents involving mob violence and forced public humiliation carry broader national consequences. Authorities warned that such scenes damage Liberia’s international image and threaten ongoing efforts to attract tourism, foreign investment, and economic opportunities. Police said images of public brutality circulating globally risk portraying the country as unstable and lawless.

The police administration stressed that Liberia continues to market itself internationally as a peaceful democratic nation open to business, commerce, and international partnerships. However, officials cautioned that acts of mob justice and gender-based violence undermine public confidence in state institutions and weaken the country’s reputation abroad.

While reaffirming its commitment to pursuing justice for the victim, the Liberia National Police also urged the public to allow the judicial process to proceed peacefully and lawfully and reminded citizens that all accused persons remain entitled to due process and are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court. The police additionally called on community leaders, youth groups, religious institutions, civil society organizations, and market associations to reject mob violence, public humiliation, and all forms of gender-based abuse, stressing that a civilized society is built on justice, accountability, and respect for human dignity rather than the anger of crowds.

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MONROVIA – The House of Representatives on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, convened the first-day sitting of its 2nd Quarter of the 3rd Session of the 55th Legislature of the Republic of Liberia, setting the stage for a busy legislative period marked by proposed law amendments, oversight requests, and major communications from lawmakers and the Executive Branch.

The session officially opened with routine procedures, including a call to order, opening prayer, roll call, adoption of the agenda, and reading of the previous day’s journal, before moving into critical legislative and administrative matters that dominated plenary discussions.

A key highlight of the sitting was the presentation of two discharge petitions aimed at accelerating legislative action on pending bills. The first was submitted by Hon. Jerry K. Yogboh Sr. of Montserrado County District #12, seeking to bring to the floor a bill titled “An Act to Amend Sections 5.1 and 5.2 of the National Code of Conduct.” The second petition came from Hon. Anthony F. Williams of Maryland County District #2, calling for the discharge of a major tax reform proposal titled “An Act to Amend and Restate Sections 16, 200, 201, and 205 of the Consolidated Tax Amendment to the Revenue Code of Liberia (2000), as amended, to adjust personal income tax thresholds and reform the investment incentive regime.”

Lawmakers also introduced new legislative proposals and motions, including a communication from Hon. Rugie Yatu Barry of Montserrado County District #1, seeking consideration for amendments to the Liberia Agriculture Commodity Regulatory Authority Act, signaling continued attention to reforms in the agricultural sector.

Under “Business on the Speaker’s Desk,” several important national issues were tabled for legislative review and possible action. Among them was a formal communication from President Joseph Nyuma Boakai informing lawmakers of his official travel to Nairobi, Kenya, from May 9 to 13, 2026, where he is expected to attend the “Africa Forward” summit.

Oversight concerns also featured prominently during the sitting. Hon. Prince Toles of Montserrado District #8 urged plenary to summon the Managing Director of the Liberia Electricity Corporation to account for the ongoing electricity shortages affecting the country. The call reflects growing public frustration over unstable power supply in Monrovia and surrounding communities.

In another development, Hon. Prescilla Abram Cooper of Montserrado District #5 requested that the House invite Ambassador-at-Large Sheikh Moustapha Kouyateh to clarify alleged remarks made on OK FM, in which he reportedly claimed that members of the Legislature received bribes linked to European concession agreements signed by government. The matter is expected to generate significant political debate if formally taken up by plenary.

Lawmakers also pressed for accountability in the concessions and investment sector. Hon. Anthony Williams of Maryland County called for the appearance of the National Investment Commission and the National Bureau of Concessions to provide detailed reports on agreements involving the Cavalla Rubber Corporation and Maryland Oil Palm Plantation, two major agricultural investments in southeastern Liberia.

Similarly, Hon. J. Clarence T. Banks of Grand Bassa County District #2 requested the invitation of Mr. Herbert Y. Soper, Director General for Central Africa Business Development Global Tracking and Maritime Solutions, to respond to questions relating to business operations and engagements in Liberia.

Attention was also drawn to national infrastructure concerns, as Hon. Jacob Cheategba Debee II of Grand Gedeh County District #3 sought clarity on the status of the Pan African Plaza building, a project whose progress and ownership status have been subjects of public interest.

In another oversight move, Hon. Nehker E. Gaye of Nimba County District #3 called for the Minister of Local Government to appear before plenary to present detailed plans on the harmonization of cities and townships, an initiative linked to decentralization and local governance reforms.

Meanwhile, Hon. Marie Johnson of Grand Gedeh County District #2 submitted two separate communications: one appealing to President Boakai regarding concerns affecting Liberians residing in South Africa, and another requesting permission for an official district engagement tour scheduled from May 11 to 25, 2026.

The session also included a request from Hon. Isaac B. Choloplay Wuo of River Gee County District #2 seeking a two-week leave of absence from May 12 to 29, 2026, to attend the burial ceremony of Chief James Pa Saye in River Gee County.

The post Hor Opens 2nd Quarter Session With Key Legislative Petitions, Oversight Demands, And Presidential Travel Notice appeared first on Liberia News Network.