By: James Suah
Ganta City, Nimba County — The Liberia National Police (LNP) in Nimba County has arrested six individuals identified as leaders of a recent motorcyclists’ protest in Ganta City.
According to Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Larmie Mendein, the six were identified through video footage captured at the protest site.
The arrested individuals are Timothy Yeanay, Darius Saplay, Rujar Sumo, Joseph Harris, Myres Weah, and Daniel Dolo.
They face multiple charges, including rioting, criminal mischief, theft of property, aggravated assault, attempted arson, and disorderly conduct.
ACP Mendein confirmed that the suspects have been questioned and are expected to be forwarded to court for prosecution. He also noted that additional arrests may follow as investigations continue.
The police clarified that many protest participants were not regular motorcyclists but individuals suspected of involvement in drug trafficking. The demonstration reportedly stemmed from frustrations over recent law enforcement crackdowns on illicit drugs by the LNP and the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA).
“We have video evidence showing nearly all participants, including those who set up roadblocks and burned tires. They will be apprehended and prosecuted according to the law,” ACP Mendein said.
Separate Investigation into Roland Johnson’s Death
In a related matter, the LNP is investigating the alleged killing of Roland Johnson. ACP Mendein stressed that those arrested in connection with the protest are not linked to Johnson’s death, which occurred prior to their apprehension.
The police have identified two suspects in Johnson’s case: Johnathan Dahn (alias Enforcer, 19) and Amos Boayou (alias Third Period, 20).
They face charges of armed robbery, criminal conspiracy, and theft of property after allegedly stealing a black Bajaj motorcycle from a motorcyclist outside Jestina’s Bar and Restaurant shortly before Johnson’s death.
Residents of Bunadin suspected that the duo may have been involved in Johnson’s killing due to their connection to the stolen motorcycle. However, police confirmed that the documentation for the stolen bike did not match the motorcycle Johnson was riding. The rightful owner of the stolen motorcycle has since presented the original documents, confirming ownership.
Both Dahn and Boayou have been charged and are set to be prosecuted in court.
The LNP continues to investigate the protests and associated criminal activities, emphasizing its commitment to justice and community safety.
