The Liberia National Police (LNP) has suspended Superintendent Margaret T. Ford (LNP ID No. 4348), the General Commander of the Zone-1 Police Station and its depots, following findings of serious professional misconduct. The decision takes immediate effect and includes a one-month suspension without pay.
According to the LNP, an internal investigation determined that Superintendent Ford violated multiple administrative and professional standards. Among the key findings was abuse of authority, including the improper use of civilians as police aides to carry out official duties such as the seizure, impoundment, and release of motorcycles at the Zone-1 Base Police Station.
Investigators also cited Ford for unlawful detention in several unrelated incidents occurring between July and September 2025. In one case, she was found to have improperly received LRD 1,500 as a release fee before discharging a detainee, an action deemed inconsistent with established police procedures.
Additionally, the probe revealed that Superintendent Ford failed to properly account for seized property. This included two cartons of spare ribs valued at LRD 12,750, along with other confiscated items. The LNP further disclosed that she did not comply with directives from the Professional Standards Division (PSD), notably refusing to appear to clarify complaints related to seized goods and property.
As conditions for any future reinstatement, Superintendent Ford must:
Fully restitute all improperly received funds and/or the value of missing seized items; Return confiscated property or compensate affected complainants; and Fully cooperate with ongoing PSD investigations and resolve all outstanding complaints.
The LNP also advised complainants whose allegations of extortion or unlawful detention were not filed within the six-month statutory reporting period under the Liberia National Police Act to pursue redress through the courts, as administrative remedies are no longer applicable in those cases.
Police authorities emphasized that the disciplinary action aligns with the LNP’s Administrative Instructions on Discipline and Professional Standards, which address misconduct, abuse of authority, unlawful detention, and unsatisfactory conduct.
Reaffirming its stance, the Liberia National Police stated that strict enforcement of internal disciplinary measures is critical to deterring misconduct, strengthening institutional accountability, and preserving public trust. The LNP reiterated its commitment to serving the public with integrity, professionalism, and respect for the rights of all citizens.
