Full Police Statement Confirms Misconduct, Legal Charges, and Disciplinary Action
The Liberia National Police (LNP) has officially charged Zainab Bah and her husband Ibrahim Jalloh following a July 22 incident in the Newport Street community that escalated into a physical altercation with police officers and sparked public outrage over religious rights violations.
According to the LNP, Madam Bah has been charged with Simple Assault, Preventing Arrest or Discharge of Official Duties, and Disorderly Conduct, after allegedly throwing a bench and splashing hot soup at officers during a power theft inspection led by the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC). Mr. Jalloh, meanwhile, has been formally charged with Power Theft, accused of tampering with LEC meters to bypass billing systems.
Officer Suspended Over Hijab Incident
Public concern intensified after a viral video showed Officer Alice Tokpah forcibly removing Madam Bah’s hijab during the arrest, a move many condemned as degrading and disrespectful to religious values.
Following an internal investigation, the LNP’s Professional Standards Department found Officer Tokpah guilty of “Unsatisfactory Conduct” and “Unsatisfactory Performance” for removing the head covering without justification and using excessive force during a phase when Madam Bah had already shifted to passive resistance. Tokpah has been suspended for one month without pay.
The LNP’s full findings also revealed that officers failed to address a clear language barrier, making no attempt to communicate through Mr. Jalloh or a translator, an oversight the report says contributed to the escalation.
Full Police Report Highlights:
Zainab Bah’s arrest was lawful, but her physical resistance should have been met with better de-escalation tactics once she calmed. The hijab removal was deemed unnecessary. LEC and LNP officers failed to accommodate the couple’s language needs. No physical injuries were reported by Madam Bah during interviews. Officer Prince Chebo, another officer present, was cleared of wrongdoing.
Legal Process and Public Response
Both cases are now pending trial before courts of competent jurisdiction.
The incident has reignited national conversations about police conduct, religious freedom, and respect for cultural identity. Rights groups and religious leaders have expressed concern over the violation of Madam Bah’s dignity, while others urge the public not to lose sight of the broader issue of power theft and electricity losses.
In its closing statement, the LNP said it remains committed to “transparency, accountability, and professionalism,” adding that this case reflects the need for improved procedures in arresting individuals with cultural or religious sensitivities.
As the case moves to trial, public interest remains high, with many watching to see whether this moment will lead to long-term changes in policing practices across Liberia.
