– Police Officer Suspended Over Newport Street Arrest Incident
By Jerromie S. Walters
The Liberia National Police (LNP) has announced criminal charges against Zainab Bah following a confrontation with officers during a power theft inspection in Monrovia’s Newport Street community last month. The July 22 incident, which was captured in a widely circulated video, led to public outcry and prompted an internal investigation into the conduct of the officers involved.
Authorities revealed that Bah has been formally charged with simple assault for allegedly throwing a bench and splashing hot soup at police officers, as well as preventing arrest and disorderly conduct under Liberia’s Penal Law. Meanwhile, her co-accused, Ibrahim Jalloh, faces charges of power theft for allegedly tampering with an electricity meter to avoid billing.
The LNP’s investigation found that while Bah’s initial arrest was justified due to her resistance, officers failed to de-escalate the situation once she became passive. The report also determined that police did not make adequate efforts to accommodate her language barrier, as no translator was provided despite her husband being present.
In response to the findings, the LNP suspended Officer Alice M. Tokpah for one month without pay for misconduct, including the unjustified removal of Bah’s hijab and excessive handling of a child during the arrest. Another officer, Prince W. Chebo, was cleared of any wrongdoing.
The police force emphasized its commitment to accountability and professional conduct, stating that the disciplinary actions reflect their dedication to maintaining public trust. The case against Bah and Jalloh will now proceed to court for trial.
Early last Thursday, members of the Muslim community staged a protest in response to the situation. Following the protest, Liberia’s Chief Imam Ali Kraye appealed for peace and patience following emergency discussions with police leadership about the violent arrest of the Muslim woman which was captured on viral video. The prominent religious leader confirmed the Liberia National Police has pledged to conduct a thorough investigation into the disturbing incident.
In a formal statemen, he noted, “Salaam to All,” Imam Kraye revealed he has personally engaged with senior police officials regarding the footage showing officers using apparent excessive force against a female Muslim suspect. “We have received firm assurances this matter is being treated with utmost seriousness,” the Chief Imam stated, while urging community members to avoid premature judgments.
The religious leader’s intervention came as tensions rose within Monrovia’s Muslim community following Tuesday’s arrest, which showed the woman being forcibly subdued in front of her child. Islamic leaders emphasize the incident raises particular concerns about religious sensitivity and gender-appropriate policing practices.
The Chief Imam stressed that while justice must be served, the Muslim community should refrain from protests or retaliation until investigations conclude. “This is a test of our collective patience and faith in the rule of law,” the Imam’s statement continued. “We must allow the proper channels to work while maintaining our dignity and peaceful principles.”
Days after, the Guinean government called for an urgent investigation into the incident. The Foreign Ministry statement published via its verified Facebook page incorrectly characterized the incident as a sexual assault. However, the actual story is the use of excessive force during the arrest. Guinea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that Dr. Morissanda Kouyaté, its Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Integration, and Guineans Living Abroad, met Mr. Samuel Semah, the Chargé d’Affaires of the Liberian Embassy in Guinea, following the circulation of a video showing the arrest.
In the meeting, Minister Kouyaté expressed deep concern over the treatment of the Guinean woman and called for a transparent probe into the conduct of the officers involved. “In a firm tone, His Excellency the Minister has denounced these inaccuracies by the Liberian Police and asked the Liberian authorities to shed full light on this situation so that the perpetrators are punished to the extent of their loot,” the Foreign Ministry stated.
According to the release, Mr. Semah acknowledged the gravity of the situation, describing it as an “unfortunate and isolated incident” that does not reflect the standards of Liberia’s law enforcement. He assured Guinean officials that Monrovia is taking steps to address the matter and will provide updates on the investigation.
“In return, the Commissioner of Affairs thanked His Excellency the Minister for his frank collaboration before emphasizing that this case is an isolated act that the Liberian government is lamenting. He assures the Guinean authorities of making arrangements on the side of Liberia to resolve “this unfortunate incident” promptly. He salutes this brotherly approach of the Guinean Chief of Diplomacy and promises to account for his hierarchy,” the release notes.
