Reports from Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, suggest that Ruth Nimely, the young woman accused of stealing more than L$2.7 million from a local community of fishmongers, has been released from police custody.
Nimely, believed to be between the ages of 18 and 20, was arrested earlier this month after she allegedly diverted funds belonging to members of the Fish for Living Organization, a women-led savings group composed mainly of fishmongers from Big Fanti Town. The group had been pooling money for several years as part of their community savings initiative.
According to accounts from the victims, Nimely admitted to using portions of the stolen funds for personal luxuries, including a bed worth L$110,000, two iPhones, and financial support for her boyfriend. Her arrest followed weeks of tension in the community, as members of the organization expressed deep frustration over the loss, especially with their annual savings distribution scheduled for September, a time when many depend on the payout for household and business expenses.
However, recent reports indicate that Nimely is no longer behind bars. Sources close to the case say a legal representative stood on her behalf, leading to her temporary release while the police investigation continues.
Shortly after regaining her freedom, Nimely took to social media with a cryptic post that read:
“For a minute there I lost myself. It’s all momentary, it’s all temporary.”
The post quickly gained public attention, sparking debates about its meaning and timing amid the ongoing probe. Many social media users have criticized what they describe as a “mockery” of justice, while others argue that she is entitled to express herself as the investigation unfolds.
The Liberia National Police have yet to issue an official statement confirming the conditions of her release or updating the public on the status of the case. Meanwhile, affected members of the Fish for Living Organization continue to call for government intervention and the full recovery of their stolen funds.
