Inspector General of Police Gregory Coleman has issued a stern warning that officers of the Liberia National Police (LNP) will not hesitate to defend themselves if they come under any form of attack amid the political firestorm surrounding the Capitol Building blaze.
Speaking during a live interview on State Radio Monday morning, IGP Coleman responded to what he described as escalating intimidation tactics allegedly orchestrated by opposition figures, including the online release of personal contact details and home addresses of senior LNP officers.
“We are aware of the intent behind these actions. They are not just reckless, they are dangerous,” Coleman emphasized. “Let me be clear: if any officer of the Liberia National Police is attacked or their life is threatened, we will defend ourselves within the full limits of the law.”
The police chief’s remarks come as tensions remain high following the recent fire that gutted parts of the Capitol Building. While the cause of the blaze is still under investigation, the case has taken on a political dimension, with speculation swirling around possible involvement of high-profile political figures. The LNP is currently pursuing multiple leads and has questioned several individuals, though no formal charges have been made public.
Sources within the LNP have confirmed that social media accounts linked to opposition-aligned pages have been publishing sensitive personal information of police leadership? a move the LNP considers a red line.
“This is not political speech. This is targeted intimidation,” Coleman said. “We will not be provoked, but we also will not be defenseless.”
The Inspector General’s comments reflect growing concerns within the LNP about the safety of its officers as political discourse in the country becomes increasingly volatile.
Civil society groups and political analysts have called for calm and urged all actors to allow the investigative process to proceed without interference or harassment. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Justice has reportedly launched a parallel probe into the origin of the Capitol fire and the online threats aimed at law enforcement officials.
IGP Coleman concluded his statement with an appeal to the public to remain law-abiding and vigilant: “We are here to protect and serve, not to be hunted. The rule of law must prevail.”
As investigations continue, all eyes remain on how the government, and the opposition, will navigate the deepening fallout from one of the most politically charged incidents in recent Liberian history.
