MONROVIA, Liberia – The Liberia National Police (LNP) has formally charged eight individuals and forwarded them to court in connection with an alleged abuse case in River Gee County that sparked nationwide outrage after a video of the incident circulated widely on social media.
The case centers on the alleged unlawful public mistreatment and humiliation of a woman in Torroken Town, River Gee County. Authorities say the incident drew significant public attention after video footage emerged online, prompting the police to launch an immediate investigation into possible criminal violations.
According to the LNP, investigators focused exclusively on determining whether criminal acts were committed against the woman, emphasizing that allegations of witchcraft—reportedly linked to the incident—are not recognized as criminal offenses under Liberian law.
Police say the investigation uncovered evidence suggesting that the victim was subjected to public humiliation, coercion, and other forms of abuse, leading to the decision to pursue criminal charges against those allegedly involved.
The eight individuals charged in connection with the matter are:
- Cyrus Tinapo
- Doe Waplo
- Patrick Swen
- Princess Appleton
- Moses Tarwole
- Esther Welabo
- Rufus Swen
- Benedict Taryon
According to investigators, evidence gathered during the inquiry, including video footage shared on social media and observations documented by law enforcement officers, provided sufficient grounds to establish probable cause for prosecution.
Based on the findings, the Liberia National Police has charged the suspects with multiple offenses, including Criminal Conspiracy, Criminal Coercion, Harassment, and Felonious Restraint, in accordance with Liberian law. The case has now been transferred to the courts for judicial proceedings.
The police disclosed that the investigation remains active and that additional individuals could face charges if further evidence reveals their involvement in the incident.
To safeguard her privacy, dignity, and security, authorities have withheld the identity of the alleged victim.
The case has reignited discussions about mob justice, public humiliation, and the protection of vulnerable individuals, particularly women, in rural communities. Human rights advocates have increasingly called for stronger enforcement of laws designed to protect citizens from abuse, intimidation, and extrajudicial punishment.
In its statement, the Liberia National Police stressed that all accused individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction. The institution urged members of the public to refrain from speculation, witness intimidation, or attempts to influence the judicial process.
The police also reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of all citizens, emphasizing that allegations of wrongdoing must be addressed through lawful judicial channels rather than vigilante actions or public punishment.
Authorities say the case represents a significant test of Liberia’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability for acts that undermine the rights and dignity of individuals.
The matter is now before the courts, where the accused will have an opportunity to respond to the allegations as judicial proceedings move forward.
