A disturbing clash within Liberia’s security forces has come to light after an Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) soldier was allegedly attacked in the Palm Spring Community, Careysburg, Montserrado County.
The victim, identified as Corporal David N. Watson, was reportedly assaulted on the night of September 3, 2025, by Emergency Response Unit (ERU) officer Decee Homer and two unidentified men believed to be civilians.
The altercation took place around 10:00 PM on Palm Spring Main Street, just hours after an earlier dispute connected to accusations of impersonation.
Events Leading Up to the Attack
According to an official complaint filed on September 5, tensions had first surfaced earlier that day, at about 4:30 PM, during a confrontation involving Sgt. Weefar Beyan (AFL), Officer Homer, civilian Joe Zaragba, and private security guard Samuel Partuah.
Zaragba accused Partuah of pretending to be a member of the military. However, when asked for proof, Partuah presented a valid ID confirming he was a private security worker. With no grounds for detention, Sgt. Beyan and Cpl. Watson left the scene.
Later that evening, while walking along Palm Spring Main Street, Cpl. Watson was reportedly approached by Officer Homer and two men. They accused him of allowing Partuah to leave the earlier standoff.
“I explained that I had no authority to hold Mr. Partuah,” Watson wrote in his statement. “But they refused to listen, pushed me to the ground, and started beating me.”
Injuries and Rescue
The corporal said he was struck with sticks and suffered a serious shoulder injury. He managed to escape the assault and sought help from a passerby known only as Josephus, who contacted Camp Sandy Ware Military Barracks.
A rescue team was dispatched, and Watson was quickly transported to the barracks before being transferred to the 14 Military Hospital, where he remains under medical care.
Ongoing Investigations
The Armed Forces of Liberia has not yet made a public statement, but sources inside the military confirm the matter is under review. The Liberia National Police (LNP) and the ERU leadership are also expected to release their own comments regarding Officer Homer’s alleged role.
The identities of the two civilians involved in the attack have not yet been established.
Human rights advocates and security experts have raised alarm over the situation, stressing the need for accountability and discipline within Liberia’s security sector.
“This case is concerning,” a legal analyst said. “If the allegations are confirmed, it highlights a serious breakdown in coordination and mutual respect among our national security institutions.”
For his part, Cpl. Watson is demanding justice.
“I believe in the rule of law,” he said. “All I ask is for a fair and transparent investigation.”
