Monrovia-Thomas Etheridge, the prime suspect in the December 18, 2024, arson attack on Liberia’s Capitol Building, collapsed while in police custody early Saturday, sparking allegations of maltreatment.
By Willie N. Tokpah, [email protected]
On Monday, January 13, Etheridge appeared weak and distressed before losing consciousness, prompting immediate medical attention.
Etheridge was arrested by the Liberia National Police (LNP) as part of an ongoing investigation into the fire that destroyed the joint chambers of the Capitol, crippling legislative activities.
His detention marks a breakthrough in the probe, which has been a top priority for the government following President Joseph Boakai’s directive to ensure swift justice.
Meanwhile, a writ of habeas corpus, was recently filed on his behalf, in which he accused the joint security of unlawful arrest and torture in connection to the Capitol Building fire incident. The Joint Security denied the allegation in court, saying it is composed of integrity institutions acted in accordance with law.
The Court, presided over by Resident Circuit Judge Kaiboi Nuta, emphasized the importance of addressing the petitioner’s health concerns, noting its inability to independently verify his current physical state.
In his ruling, Judge Nuta stated that the court, not being close to any authority to verify the current physical state of the petitioner, will release Etheridge into the custody of guarantors deemed satisfactory by the court. These guarantors will ensure that the Petitioner is immediately taken to a credible health facility and a report presented to the Court on or before January 16, 2025, at 10:00 AM.”
The Court further noted that the issue of life and health is of paramount concern and cannot be downplayed. However, it acknowledged its lack of capacity to maintain custody of the petitioner while ensuring medical care. As such, the petitioner’s legal representatives have been instructed to provide three credible guarantors promptly.
However, Counsel representing the Republic of Liberia raised objections to the aspect of the ruling requiring guarantors to oversee the petitioner’s medical care. They argued that such a responsibility should fall under the direct supervision of the Court to ensure neutrality and avoid conflicts of interest.
Responding to the objection, Judge Nuta acknowledged it for the record.
Drama in court
While he was being taken to the hospital, Sheriff from the City Court came with another writ, prompting a commotion. Court officers who were escorting Etheridge refused to hand him over to the Sheriff from the City Court. During the tussle, Etheridge collapsed. He was later taken to the Hospital for medical examination.
