The Paynesville City Corporation (PCC) has issued a formal clarification following an incident earlier Tuesday in the bustling Redlight commercial district involving one of its city officers and a pregnant street vendor.
According to preliminary details provided by the Corporation, the encounter stemmed from routine enforcement of city ordinances governing unauthorized street selling. Officer Solomon Boakai, who was assigned to the area, engaged the expectant vendor after reportedly warning her about selling in a restricted zone. What began as a verbal exchange escalated into a physical confrontation, leaving the woman visibly shaken and distressed.
Bystanders intervened, and the vendor was immediately transported to the John F. Kennedy Medical Center for medical evaluation. Health workers at JFK later confirmed that she is in stable condition and receiving appropriate care.
In response to the incident, PCC announced that Officer Boakai has been recalled from duty pending the outcome of a full-scale internal investigation. The institution emphasized that while enforcement of city regulations is necessary, it must always be carried out with professionalism and respect for human rights.
“The safety and dignity of every resident remain our priority,” the Corporation said, noting that it regrets the distress caused to the vendor and is committed to ensuring accountability.
PCC further assured the public that a transparent inquiry is already underway and that appropriate actions will follow based on the findings. The Corporation also expressed concern for the woman’s well-being and reaffirmed its commitment to humane enforcement practices across Paynesville.
