Ex-official faces criminal mischief charges over alleged demolition of homes in Tweh Farm.
Former Montserrado County Superintendent Grace Kpan was arrested and charged with criminal mischief on Tuesday after allegedly ordering the destruction of several homes in Tweh Farm Community, leaving residents homeless and sparking outrage.
According to a complaint filed at the Monrovia City Court, Kpan, who served as superintendent from 2006 to 2017 and was the Liberian National Union (LINU) vice standard-bearer in 2023, reportedly used heavy machinery to demolish properties belonging to Benson Kun and other residents on April 12.
The destroyed homes and structures were valued at US$241,450, with individual losses estimated at US$83,795 and US$157,655.
Affected residents described a chaotic scene, claiming Kpan’s actions left families without shelter.
“We woke up to bulldozers tearing down our homes, no warning, no court order,” said one distraught resident. “How can someone who once led this county do this to her own people?”
The arrest marks a dramatic fall for Kpan, a longtime political figure who was once a key administrator in Liberia’s most populous county. If convicted, she could face fines or imprisonment under Liberia’s Penal Law.
Legal experts say the case hinges on whether Kpan had legal authority to demolish the structures. Land disputes are common in Liberia, but unauthorized demolitions can lead to criminal liability.
Kpan’s arrest could also have political implications. As LINU’s former vice standard-bearer, her actions may draw scrutiny to the party ahead of future elections.
Kpan is expected to appear before the Monrovia City Court for further proceedings. Meanwhile, displaced residents are calling for compensation and swift justice.
“We just want our lives back,” said Kun, the lead complainant.
