By: James Myking Suah
Grand Kru County – A 32-year-old woman identified as Victoria Tarkah has died after allegedly being tortured by a group of young men who accused her of witchcraft. Police in Grand Kru County say the circumstances surrounding the accusations remain unverified.
According to the Liberia National Police (LNP) County Detachment, Victoria was found dead along the highway, about one mile from Jlatwen Town. Authorities were alerted by Allison Bloh, the General Town Chief of Jlatwen, who reported that Victoria’s unconscious body had been discovered outside the town.
Reports indicate that several individuals were involved in the torture. They were initially apprehended by the Community Watch Forum, but mysteriously escaped custody—raising suspicions among residents that the forum may have facilitated their escape.
The police later identified the suspects as Abednego Dweh, Boniface Nyengar, and Bernord Kuoh, all of whom are currently on the run.
A police team led by Inspector Brownstone Hne visited the crime scene but found no suspects present. Community members reportedly provided little cooperation, and the town chief allegedly offered minimal information. During a background investigation, officers discovered Victoria’s body hidden in a bush behind the town.
Victoria’s mother, Ms. Sophia Klah, recounted that on the night of September 7, a group of young men stormed their home and demanded she hand over her daughter, accusing her of witchcraft. Fearing for her life, she complied but was only able to identify one of the attackers—Bernord Kuoh.
A 15-member coroner’s jury, working alongside a medical practitioner, confirmed that Victoria’s death resulted from poisoning, ruling out natural causes.
Police have since turned over the body to her family for burial and are pursuing the case further. They are seeking permission from the County Superintendent to question local authorities, including Town Chief Allison Bloh and Paramount Chief Jeh Simbo.
Investigators also intend to interrogate Community Watch Forum members Anthony Dahn, Bernard Jeh, and Jackson Nyonoon.
Meanwhile, Regina Walker, the County Ministry of Gender Coordinator, strongly condemned the killing. She described it as a brutal act of violence against women and children and urged collective efforts to end such harmful practices rooted in witchcraft accusations.
As the investigation continues, residents of Grand Kru remain shaken, demanding justice for Victoria and accountability for those responsible.
