Margibi County, Liberia – The Liberia National Police (LNP) has opened an investigation into serious allegations of sexual assault involving a police commander assigned to the WOHN area in Gibi District #5, Margibi County.
According to information confirmed by the LNP Press Director, the officer is accused of sexually assaulting a seven-month pregnant woman who was being held in police detention.
Preliminary reports indicate that the woman had earlier been taken into custody after she was reportedly charged with aggravated assault in connection with a domestic incident involving her husband. While in detention, she alleged that during the night the officer responsible for overseeing the facility entered her holding cell and removed her to another room where a mattress had been placed.
The woman further claimed that the officer attempted to engage her in inappropriate conduct. When she resisted his advances, the officer allegedly used force, including pressing a bedsheet against her neck, before sexually assaulting her.
The accused officer has reportedly denied the allegations. However, sources say he has also allegedly admitted wrongdoing and apologized to the victim’s family, offering L$2,000 as compensation. Authorities have not yet confirmed those claims as part of the official investigation.
In response to the complaint, the Liberia National Police said the officer has been placed in custody and handed over to the Women and Children Protection Section (WACPS) to ensure an impartial and thorough investigation into the matter.
Police authorities emphasized that the institution maintains a zero-tolerance policy for abuse of authority and misconduct by officers.
“The Liberia National Police wishes to assure the public that any officer found to have violated the law or breached the trust placed in the institution will be held fully accountable in accordance with Liberian law and established disciplinary procedures,” the police statement said.
The police further acknowledged that individuals in custody are entitled to dignity, safety, and the protection of their fundamental human rights, stressing that allegations of abuse within detention facilities are treated with utmost seriousness.
The investigation remains ongoing, and the Liberia National Police says it will continue to update the public as more information becomes available.
