MONROVIA – Liberia’s Inspector General of Police, Gregory O. W. Coleman, has confirmed that several individuals, including sitting lawmakers, have been formally charged in connection with the arson attack on the Capitol Building, a crime that sent shockwaves through the country and raised serious concerns about threats to national stability.
In a national address on Friday, June 6, 2025, Inspector General Coleman disclosed that a months-long investigation led by the Liberia National Police (LNP), in close collaboration with the Joint Security apparatus, had uncovered what he described as a “coordinated plan” to deliberately target one of the country’s most important democratic institutions.
“The findings of our investigation are not assumptions or opinions,” Coleman stated. “They are based on verified evidence and guided by the law.”
The police chief noted that the investigation has led to the filing of charges against both private citizens and elected officials, a move he described as “a difficult but necessary truth.” According to him, the charges include arson, criminal conspiracy, and related offenses under the Revised Penal Code of Liberia.
““This is not a political battle. This is a matter of justice,” Coleman emphasized. “The law does not see colors or party lines; it sees facts, and it demands accountability.”
While the identities of those charged have not yet been made public, the revelation that sitting lawmakers are among the suspects is likely to deepen political tensions and spark intense public debate. However, Coleman insisted that the process remains rooted in law and order, not partisanship.
He also warned against any attempts to incite unrest, stressing that the Liberia National Police will not tolerate threats to peace and stability. “To those circulating messages of unrest or calling for violence, be reminded that Liberia has paid a heavy price for peace,” he said. “We will not allow fear, threats, or incitement to reverse our gains.”
Coleman urged Liberians to remain calm, respect the judicial process, and resist the temptation to resort to division or violence. “We are stronger when we resolve our differences through dialogue, not destruction,” he said.
The Capitol arson attack, which left parts of the historic legislative complex damaged, was widely condemned by both national and international observers. The conclusion of the LNP investigation is expected to open a new chapter in the country’s efforts to uphold the rule of law amid a politically sensitive climate.
“Liberia will not fall,” Coleman concluded. “Liberia will rise stronger, united, and determined to defend democracy.”
