Grand Bassa County, Liberia — February 25, 2026 — Liberia’s law enforcement integrity framework is under scrutiny once again following an allegation of attempted rape involving a police officer assigned to the Grand Bassa County Police Detachment, prompting swift action by the Liberia National Police (LNP) and raising broader concerns about accountability within the force.
According to an official statement issued by the LNP, the allegation was formally lodged on Tuesday, February 24, through the institution’s Professional Standards Department (PSD) and the Women and Children Protection Section (WACPS)—two internal units responsible for investigating misconduct and protecting vulnerable individuals.
Authorities confirmed that both administrative and criminal investigations were immediately launched after the complaint was received, signaling what the LNP describes as its commitment to addressing allegations involving Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and abuse of authority without delay.
The officer at the center of the allegation has been placed under internal administrative review while investigators work to establish the facts surrounding the incident. Police officials have not disclosed the officer’s identity, citing procedural fairness and the integrity of the investigation, and have also withheld the complainant’s identity in accordance with victim-protection laws.
The case now places the spotlight on the LNP’s internal accountability mechanisms, particularly the role of the Professional Standards Department, which is mandated to investigate allegations of misconduct within the force. The Women and Children Protection Section is also involved, underscoring the seriousness of the allegation and its classification under gender-based violence protocols.
In its statement, the Liberia National Police emphasized that the accused officer remains presumed innocent under the law until proven guilty in a court of competent jurisdiction. However, the institution reiterated its zero-tolerance stance toward misconduct, especially offenses involving sexual violence, abuse of power, or violations of human rights.
Police authorities warned that any officer found culpable would face both criminal prosecution and internal disciplinary sanctions, reinforcing what officials described as a dual accountability approach designed to uphold professional standards and public trust.
The investigation comes at a time when public confidence in security institutions remains closely tied to their ability to address internal misconduct transparently and fairly. The LNP has sought to reassure the public that the process will be handled professionally and without interference.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Sam K. Collins, Chief of Press and Public Affairs, said the institution remains committed to transparency and due process, adding that further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses and in accordance with legal procedures.
For now, police officials are urging the public to remain calm and allow investigators to complete their work, as the outcome of the case could carry significant implications for institutional accountability and the ongoing national fight against sexual and gender-based violence.
The investigation remains ongoing.
