-LNP Identifies five persons of interest in connection with Her Gruesome Death
By Jerromie S. Walters
Monrovia: Fear and curiosity have enraged many Liberians following the mysterious death of Madam Sianneh Goe Ricks, a 45-year-old Liberian-Canadian who is reported to have been raped, killed and burned at her Ben Town, Marshall Road, Margibi County residence on June 20, 2025.
The Liberia National Police (LNP) says it has identified five individuals as persons of interest and they are under active investigation. This comes as the Police disclosed on Tuesday evening that it is actively investigating the death of Madam Sianneh Goe Ricks who was found deceased in her room and tragically burned beyond recognition. Due to the condition of the remains, the LNP confirms that she has since been interred.
“We urge the public to remain calm and cooperative as our investigation continues. The Liberia National Police is fully committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring that justice is served. If you have any relevant information, please contact the LNP through our official hotlines: 0770800410, 0770800415, 0770800122,” the LNP urges.
Initial reports suggest that the victim had traveled to Liberia to open her home in Marshall which she did but was gruesomely murdered days later by unknown individuals. It is said that she was raped, dismembered, burned, and hastily buried within 24 hours of her death without conducting a proper autopsy or forensic examination.
Neighbors say she lived alone, and on the day of the incident, smoke was seen billowing from her roof, prompting residents and nearby DEA officers to break into the house. There, they found her lifeless body in flames.
Frowning On The Murder:
The Chairperson of the Women’s Legislative Caucus of Liberia, Hon. Ellen Attoh-Wreh has strongly condemned the incident. Hon. Attoh-Wreh on behalf of the Caucus expresses profound sorrow and outrage over this heinous act and extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family during this deeply painful time.
“It is both heartbreaking and unacceptable that a woman returning to contribute to her homeland would fall victim to such inhumane violence,” the Caucus noted in an official statement issued Tuesday.
It called on the Liberia National Police (LNP) and all relevant authorities to conduct a swift, transparent, and impartial investigation into the matter. “Justice must be served—not only to bring closure to the family but also to reaffirm Liberia’s commitment to safeguarding the lives, rights, and dignity of all women and girls,” the Hon. Wreh asserts.
They believe that this case underscores the urgent national need to intensify efforts against sexual and gender-based violence, ensure accountability for perpetrators, and create a safer society for every Liberian. “The Women’s Legislative Caucus remains committed to working with all sectors—governmental, civil society, and international partners—to ensure that no one in Liberia lives in fear, especially in the place he/she should feel safest—her home and community,” the Caucus statement reads.
WONGOSOL’s Alert:
In a release dated Monday, June 23, 2025, the Women’s NGO Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) called for swift investigation by the Liberia National Police (LNP) into the horrific murder of the Canadian-Liberian woman. “This tragic incident is a stark reminder of the urgent need to strengthen Liberia’s security sector, especially when it comes to protecting women and ensuring justice for victims of violence. It is disheartening to see a woman who came to invest in her country fall victim to such barbarity without a public statement or visible response from the authorities,” a WONGOSOL statement noted.
It further inquires: “We ask the following: Has the Liberia National Police officially opened an investigation into this case? Why was the victim buried the very next day, June 23, without a full forensic examination or autopsy being conducted? What steps, if any, have been taken to secure the crime scene and collect physical evidence, such as fingerprints?”
The NGO said this incident not only threatens the safety of women but also damages the nation’s image, especially in the eyes of potential investors and diaspora Liberians seeking to return and contribute to national development. “If a woman cannot feel safe in her own home, then we as a nation must reassess our priorities,” the state states.
As a leading women’s organization in Liberia, WONGOSOL reiterates that security is paramount and that women must feel safe in every part of this country. We demand a thorough and transparent investigation into Ciannah’s death and that those responsible be held accountable without delay. “We also call on the Government of Liberia and all stakeholders to prioritize reform and investment in our national security architecture, particularly in how crimes are reported, investigated, and prosecuted. Justice for Ciannah is justice for all Liberian women. WONGOSOL is closely following this case and again calls on the Liberia National Police and the Government of Liberia to take immediate action to address this issue. Silence and inaction will only embolden further violence against women and undermine public trust in the justice system.”
