Liberia: Police Officer Assigned in Ganta Under Investigation Over Rape Allegation  - FrontPageAfrica

GANTA, Nimba County – The Liberia National Police (LNP) Ganta Detachment says it has launched an active investigation into a serious rape allegation against an officer assigned to the Women and Children Protection Section (WACPS), Ganta Zone-1 Base, Nimba County.

By D Franklin Doloquee, franklin.doloquee@frontpageafricaonline.com

Preliminary reports indicate that on Friday, May 8, a parent reported a theft complaint to the WACPS involving their 16-year-old female juvenile, who was accused of taking money from the family’s mobile money business.

Pending further inquiry, the juvenile was placed in temporary protective custody in line with standard investigative procedures.

Patrolman Wessay W. Weah was assigned to supervise and secure the juvenile during her custody.

In the early morning hours of Saturday, May 9, the juvenile returned to her family and alleged that she had been sexually assaulted by the assigned officer while in custody.

The LNP immediately launched an investigation. Patrolman Weah was arrested and placed in detention pending the outcome. The juvenile was escorted to a recognized medical facility for examination and care.

Preliminary medical findings are consistent with the sexual assault allegation, with additional medical and forensic reviews ongoing.

The LNP is also conducting a comprehensive review of the circumstances surrounding the juvenile’s release from custody, including any potential procedural violations, negligence, misconduct, or criminal liability.

The accused officer remains in custody and is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.

The LNP reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward sexual and gender-based violence, abuse of authority, misconduct, and any actions inconsistent with professional standards and ethical obligations. Any officer found in violation will face both administrative and criminal proceedings under Liberian law.

Meanwhile, the LNP remains committed to protecting the dignity, welfare, and rights of victims, particularly juveniles and vulnerable persons, while conducting all investigations professionally, impartially, and based on evidence.

The investigation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as developments unfold.