By: Kongoi Gborkorquellie/Sampson W. Weah/Kabina Kabah
Monrovia, Liberia — The Liberia National Police (LNP) says one of its officers fatally shot a suspect in Congo Town on Wednesday after the man allegedly attacked and injured three police officers with a cutlass and a knife.
Speaking during a televised press briefing Wednesday night, Inspector General of Police, Col. Gregory Coleman, confirmed that the fatal shooting occurred near the old Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) building. The incident reportedly began when the suspect launched an unprovoked attack on officers responding to a distress call.
According to Col. Coleman, the LNP received the call at approximately 2:58 p.m., reporting that a police officer had been stabbed multiple times.
“Responding officers identified themselves and ordered the suspect to surrender,” Coleman said. “He refused to comply and instead attacked, striking a second officer with a cutlass. A third officer, while attempting to intervene, was stabbed in the thigh with a concealed knife.”
Faced with what police described as an immediate threat to life, one of the responding officers discharged his firearm, killing the suspect on the spot.
All three injured officers and the suspect were rushed to the John F. Kennedy Medical Center. One officer was reported to be in critical condition and undergoing emergency surgery at the time of the briefing.
Inspector General Coleman assured the public that a full-scale investigation has been launched to determine the facts surrounding the shooting. The Professional Standards Department and the Officer-Involved Shooting Team have been assigned to review the case in line with the LNP’s use-of-force policy.
“The Liberia National Police deeply regrets this tragic incident and extends heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased,” Coleman said. “We urge the public to remain calm and keep the injured officers in their prayers.”
The Police Chief also expressed concern over what he called a growing pattern of violent attacks on police officers in recent weeks.
“This is not the first attack in less than ten days, and it’s becoming an issue of serious concern,” he said, announcing plans to launch a nationwide public awareness campaign on the role of the police and the rules of engagement.
Col. Coleman stressed that police officers risk their lives daily to protect citizens and deserve respect and cooperation rather than hostility.
“A society that does not honor its protectors has no future,” he declared. “We continue to uphold peace and the rule of law in a democratic society, and we urge the public to respect the badge and honor the flag.”
He concluded by calling for unity and understanding, reaffirming the LNP’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and professionalism in law enforcement.
