MONROVIA – A disturbing incident involving alleged police brutality against a Muslim woman and her infant child has triggered public outrage, spontaneous protests, and demands for accountability from the Liberian government and civil society.
On Tuesday, July 22, 2025, officers of the Liberia National Police (LNP) reportedly arrested Madam Zainab Bah, a Fulani woman residing on Newport Street in central Monrovia. According to eyewitnesses and disturbing video footage https://www.facebook.com/share/v/16vYfoVGBv/ circulating on social media, Bah was violently apprehended, beaten, and stripped of her niqab in front of her infant child. The video allegedly shows officers forcibly removing the child from her arms and throwing the baby to the ground. The child is said to be in critical condition.
In response to the incident, a group of Fulani women staged a spontaneous protest on Thursday, July 24, near the scene of the arrest. The protest followed a separate altercation involving another Fulani woman who allegedly resisted police arrest and poured soup on an officer.
The Fula Progressive Union of Liberia (FPUL) condemned the treatment of Madam Bah, calling it an egregious violation of human rights and a blatant act of discrimination against a Muslim woman and mother. In a strongly worded statement, the FPUL demanded the immediate suspension of all officers involved, an independent investigation, urgent medical care for the mother and child, and broad reforms to the LNP’s approach toward women, children, and religious minorities.
“This act is a clear violation of Madam Bah’s rights, including freedom of religion, protection as a woman and mother, and the safety of her child,” the FPUL stated. “It reflects a dangerous level of police brutality and disregard for Liberia’s laws and human dignity.”
Meanwhile, the Liberia National Police issued a press release acknowledging the video and expressing regret over the actions shown. The LNP termed the behavior “utterly unacceptable” and assured the public that Inspector General Gregory Coleman had ordered a full and immediate investigation.
“We unequivocally condemn any form of aggression, misconduct, or disrespect by our officers,” the LNP stated. “The presence of a child during the arrest is particularly egregious, and officers are expected to exercise the utmost care and restraint.”
The police acknowledged the religious and cultural significance of the woman’s head covering and pledged transparency throughout the investigation.
In a separate development, Inspector General Coleman held a meeting with community leaders, including members of the Muslim and Fulani communities, as well as officials from the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), to reaffirm the LNP’s commitment to accountability and fair treatment of all citizens. He clarified that the incident was not religiously motivated and assured that a review of the original video footage was underway through the LNP’s Professional Standards Division.
Chief Imam of Liberia, Ali Krayee, called for calm in the wake of the incident, stating that the Muslim leadership had spoken with LNP authorities who promised a serious investigation. “We are therefore calling on all concerned to be calm while we look forward to the outcome of the investigation,” Imam Krayee said.
Despite this call for restraint, members of the Muslim community took to the streets in protest, demanding justice for Madam Bah and her child. Community members say the case is a test of the country’s commitment to religious tolerance, human rights, and rule of law.
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