A team of fire experts from the United States has arrived in Monrovia to assist the Liberian National Police (LNP) in their investigation into the reported arson attack that damaged the Joint Chambers of the House of Representatives at the Capitol Building.
The U.S. team’s arrival follows an earlier investigation by the LNP and the Liberia National Fire Service, which concluded the fire was an act of arson. Several suspects were arrested and are currently facing trial in the Monrovia City Court.
Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman clarified that the U.S. experts are tasked with “assessing the damage and assisting in the ongoing investigation,” rather than conducting an independent inquiry. He emphasized the collaboration between the U.S. team and the LNP.
The U.S. fire experts conducted their initial assessment of the Capitol Building on Saturday, March 1, 2025, and have since commenced their collaborative investigative work. Inspector General Coleman addressed the press following the team’s initial assessment.
However, the arrival of the U.S. team has generated mixed reactions among Liberians. Some have questioned the purpose of the new assessment, given the LNP and Fire Service’s previous findings and the ongoing court proceedings. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact of the U.S. team’s findings on the existing legal case.
Additionally, some Liberians have questioned why the government did not immediately seek external expertise following the fire, as had been recommended by some. Others have raised eyebrows at the LNP taking the lead on the investigation, rather than the Liberia National Fire Service, particularly given the arrival of fire experts from the United States.
It remains unclear what the U.S. team’s specific role will be in relation to the ongoing court case, and many are eagerly awaiting their findings on the cause of the fire.
Meanwhile, the Monrovia City Court has ruled that the prosecution has presented sufficient evidence to proceed with the trial of defendants Thomas Etheridge and Eric Sasay, ensuring the legal proceedings will continue
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