Gbarnga, Liberia – A police corruption scandal has erupted in Bong County after investigators discovered high-ranking officers may have orchestrated the release of a burglary suspect in exchange for bribes. Chief Inspector Patrick Sendolo, the deputy commander of the Crime Services Division, was immediately stripped of his rank and suspended, while six junior officers face disciplinary proceedings in a case that has exposed dangerous flaws in the country’s law enforcement system.
Commander James Karto of the CSD confirmed that Sendolo was relieved of his duties and placed under strict administrative suspension. Karto stated that Sendolo’s office has been sealed and his operational authority completely stripped. Although Sendolo has not been arrested, he is being closely monitored as the investigation progresses. Karto emphasized that the matter is being treated with utmost seriousness, as it strikes at the core of the police force’s credibility. The Police Professional Standards Division (PSD) is leading the investigation and will determine whether to escalate the case to a full criminal probe.
Observers point out that Sendolo’s alleged conduct could violate several provisions in both the Liberia National Police Duty Manual and the country’s Penal Code. Article 22.76 of the Penal Law addresses “official misconduct,” including unauthorized prisoner release and abuse of office, while Section 2.3 of the LNP Duty Manual mandates that all officers act lawfully, impartially, and with integrity at all times. When reached for comment, Sendolo declined to speak on the matter, citing the need for authorization from his superiors due to the ongoing investigation. Meanwhile, PSD officers in Gbarnga confirmed that Sendolo and other implicated officers have already submitted formal statements. The case file is expected to be forwarded to LNP Headquarters in Monrovia for further review and possible questioning.
The scandal stems from a burglary at the shop of local businessman Joma Agba, located near the Phebe Parking junction in Gbarnga. The well-organized theft resulted in the loss of cash and valuable items. Commander Karto stressed that the perpetrators were not petty thieves but part of a larger, more sophisticated criminal network targeting ordinary citizens. The suspect, known as “John Lion,” was initially handed over to police by alert community members but was later inexplicably released, derailing parts of the investigation and delaying justice.
Adding to the controversy, an anonymous intelligence source revealed that he played a crucial role in tracking down the suspect. The informant, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said he was informally assisting the CSD when he identified “John Lion” as part of the group behind the heist. Despite being offered a $500 bribe, the informant turned the suspect over to a CSD officer, only to later discover that he had been released without explanation. The informant expressed deep frustration, stating that he risked his safety for the sake of justice and now feels betrayed and exposed.
Commander Karto acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and admitted that it was painful for the police force. However, he urged the public not to lose faith in the entire institution, emphasizing that every organization has a few bad apples. Karto assured that the police are redoubling efforts to apprehend the fugitive and others linked to the crime, with intelligence officers actively pursuing leads. He called on Mr. Agba and the public to remain patient, vowing that the police will not rest until the case is resolved.
