The Ministry of Justice has dismissed as false and misleading reports circulating on social media and other platforms claiming that Peter Bonor Jallah Jr., who is accused of aggravated involuntary sodomy of a minor, has been released from lawful custody.
In an official statement issued Tuesday, the Ministry clarified that under Liberian law, aggravated involuntary sodomy of a minor constitutes statutory rape and is classified as a non-bailable offense until final adjudication by a court of competent jurisdiction. The Ministry emphasized that the law provides no room for administrative discretion in such cases.
The statement further explained that any release of a defendant lawfully in custody must be authorized through a formal court order. As of the date of the release, the Ministry said it has received no such order permitting Mr. Jallah’s release.
Accordingly, the Ministry confirmed that Mr. Jallah remains in lawful detention at the Monrovia Central Prison pending the final determination of his case by the court.
Reaffirming its stance, the Ministry stressed that it operates strictly within the bounds of the law and will not compromise on matters involving the protection of minors or the prosecution of serious sexual offenses. To promote transparency and maintain public confidence, the Ministry indicated its willingness to facilitate verification for concerned authorities, stakeholders, or accredited media representatives seeking confirmation of the accused’s custodial status.
The Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Justice, reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law, ensuring due process, and safeguarding vulnerable members of society.
The public has been urged to refrain from spreading unverified information that could undermine ongoing judicial proceedings or erode trust in the justice system.
