-WONGOSOL Demands Disciplinary Action in Zainab Bah Case
Monrovia: The Women NGOs Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) has issued a formal demand for a thorough probe and disciplinary action following the circulation of video evidence showing a Liberia National Police officer using excessive force on a woman (Madam Zainab Bah) and her young children during an arrest for alleged power theft.
WONGOSOL noted in a release dated Thursday, July 24, 2025, “While we recognize that Madam Bah acted inappropriately by resisting arrest and attempting to obstruct the officer through the use of violence, the police response captured in the video raises serious concerns about the excessive and disproportionate force used. Even in situations involving resistance, officers are obligated to exercise restraint and apply only the minimum force necessary to manage the situation safely and lawfully.”
The women’s group believes that the manner in which force appears to have been used in this case calls into question whether it was appropriate, proportionate, and consistent with professional policing standards.
“The video shows a woman being dragged on the floor in front of her child. This action raises serious concerns about whether the force used was appropriate and proportionate to the situation. Law enforcement officers are obligated to de-escalate conflict not escalate it through physical dominance,” the statement reads.
WONGOSOL acknowledges that police officers have the right to protect themselves when facing threats in the line of duty. However, any use of force must be strictly necessary, time-bound, and proportionate to the actual risk posed. Article 20(a) of the Liberian Constitution affirms every individual’s right to be treated with dignity and to be free from torture or inhumane treatment. Section 2.8 of the Liberia National Police Duty Manual also sets clear limits on the use of force, emphasizing restraint and proportionality.
At the same time, WONGOSOL calls on the Ministry of Justice and the Liberia National Police to determine whether the force used was appropriate in line with established legal and ethical standards. It continues: “Take appropriate administrative or disciplinary action based on the findings. Ensure that support is made available to the woman and child affected by the incident. Strengthen ongoing efforts to provide mandatory gender-sensitive, child-sensitive, and human rights training for officers, particularly around arrest procedures”
Regionally, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) prohibits cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. Liberia is also a signatory to the ECOWAS Gender and Security Sector Reform Policy, which encourages gender-sensitive and nonviolent policing.
Internationally, both the United Nations Code of Conduct for Law Enforcement Officials and Article 7 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) set clear standards prohibiting torture and other forms of inhumane or degrading treatment.
As a national platform representing over 100 women-led and grassroots organizations across Liberia, WONGOSOL reaffirms its commitment to justice, public safety, and the rule of law. We urge all citizens to comply with lawful instructions from police officers and to resolve grievances through peaceful, lawful channels. At the same time, we expect law enforcement to lead by example, exercising professionalism, restraint, and humanity in every interaction.
“We stand in solidarity with Madam Zainab Bah and her child, and with all women who continue to face injustice and abuse of power. Incidents such as these should serve as a reminder that accountability is not optional—it is foundational to public trust. Liberia’s peace and progress depend on a police service that is just, disciplined, and accountable to the people it serves. We hope this moment becomes a catalyst for deeper reforms and greater investment in rights-based policing for all.” The Women NGOs Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) position is endorsed by the Feminist Coalition.
Early 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 comes as tensions rise 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.”
Also on Thursday, Inspector General Gregory O. W. Coleman hosted a meeting with community leaders and officials from the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) at LNP Headquarters. Held in the IG’s conference room, the dialogue focused on strengthening transparency and trust.
The Inspector General reiterated that the matter captured in the video is not religious in nature, and assured that a full investigation, guided by review of the original video footage is already ongoing through the Professional Standards Division.
