-In Ganta Drowning Probe
NIMBA COUNTY, Liberia — Police Investigators in Ganta City, Nimba County, have alarmed threats and intimidation directed at them, if they proceed to conduct preliminary investigation into the instant death of Praise Womyon, 21, who got drowned in Jackie’s Resort and Guest House pool in Ganta City — the bustling facility owned by one of Nimba County’s business gurus, Mr. Floyd Seh Tomah, Sr.
Multiple sources close to the investigation (names withheld for safety), revealed to WOMEN VOICES NEWS Correspondent in Nimba on Saturday, January 3, 2026, that they are constrained — facing intense pressure and obstruction — hindering their efforts to probe the recent drowning incident.
The investigators alleged that certain individuals are actively working to undermine the investigation, citing concerns over potential repercussions and compromised safety.
Police investigators said that since 21-year-old Praise Wonyon drowned in Mr. Floyd Seh Tomah’s pool on Friday, December 26, 2025, their efforts to conduct an independent probe have been consistently obstructed and challenged. Despite their attempts to gather facts and piece together the circumstances surrounding the tragedy, they have faced relentless threats and intimidation.
Investigators disclosed that they have received a barrage of threatening phone calls and text messages from unknown numbers, and individuals warning them to back off or risk facing severe consequences, including job loss, if they pursue any investigation into the pool drowning matter.
While investigators are exercising caution, sources close to the probe hint at possible involvement of influential figures in the county, colloquially referred to as ‘Big Hands’. These individuals allegedly operate covertly, leveraging their power to obstruct justice and undermine the rule of law.
The crime scene and the Jackie’s Resort and Guest House’s facility where the accident occurred are said to be focal points of their interference, effectively shielding crucial evidence and compromising the ongoing investigation.
Despite the passage of time, from December 2025 to January 2026, police are still being stonewalled, with their comprehensive preliminary findings remaining under wraps.
Meanwhile, family members and loved ones of the victim, Praise Womyon, have issued a caveat – running out of patience, giving the police a 72-hour ultimatum to release the preliminary investigation report into the drowning incident.
According to them, if the investigation is not conducted and the report released within the specified timeframe, they will be left with no other alternate, but to take drastic action, threatening to organize a solidarity march to demand justice.
“We’re not looking for revenge, but we need answers and accountability,” a family member said, echoing the sentiment of the grieving community.
The victim’s family and loved ones are seen with frustration, slamming the police authority for dragging their feet on the investigation. They are crying foul play, alleging that injustice is being served and that there is a blatant compromise on the part of the county authorities.
“It’s like they are trying to sweep this under the rug,” a family friend stated, voicing the collective outrage. The delay, they say, is a stark reminder that justice delayed is justice denied.
Tragedy struck in Ganta City, Nimba County, on Friday, December 26, 2025, when 21-year-old Praising Womyon, a senior student at John Wesley Pearson High School, lost his life in a drowning incident at Jackie’s Resort and Guest House’s Pool. The incident occurred around 4 p.m. as Womyon was swimming with two friends at the popular recreational spot, which had been bustling with people seeking relief from the sweltering heat.
Eyewitnesses recounted that Womyon and a friend were bathing in the pool while the other friend watched from the edge.
Disturbingly, Womyon was seen struggling in the water, repeatedly getting out and re-entering the pool before finally vanishing beneath the surface. Despite desperate rescue attempts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
This devastation marks the fourth reported death at Jackie’s Resort and Guest House’s Pool since its opening, raising concerns about safety measures at the facility.
CALL MOUNTS FOR POOL SAFETY MEASURES
In a poignant display of grief and outrage, the Ganta community, including students of John Wesley Pearson High School, friends, and family members, bid a tearful farewell to Praising Womyon, affectionately known as Comedian ‘Too Big’, in a candlelight vigil.
The somber event transformed into a rallying cry, demanding justice and concrete action to prevent future tragedies.
As mourners paid their respects, they voiced concerns over the glaring lack of safety measures at Jackie’s Resort and Guest House swimming pool, where Womyon met his untimely demise. The incident has sparked widespread calls for authorities to impose stricter regulations, mandating the presence of life-saving equipment and certified personnel at all public recreational facilities.
“Enough is enough,” echoed through the crowd, as family, relatives, and colleagues demanded improved safety protocols, including clearer depth markings and enhanced supervision at pools.
The community is united in its quest for accountability, urging authorities to take immediate action to ensure such a tragedy never occurs again. The loss of Womyon, a vibrant young life, has galvanized the community, and they’re resolute in their pursuit of justice and safety.
