By: Karino Teah
Sinoe County – A disturbing video circulating on social media has triggered outrage across Liberia, showing five individuals being forced by a mob to carry the corpses of a woman and her two children—victims they are accused of killing through witchcraft.
Superintendent of Police for Sinoe County, Madam Cecelia K. Howard, confirmed that the Liberia National Police (LNP) has launched a full-scale investigation into the incident, which has shocked the nation and reignited fears over mob violence and witchcraft-related accusations in rural communities.
“The police have seen the video and we are taking the matter seriously,” Superintendent Howard said in an exclusive interview. “An investigation is ongoing to establish the facts and ensure that justice is served.”
Mob Justice on Display: Graphic Video Sparks Outrage
The graphic footage shows five individuals—accused by their community of practicing witchcraft—being publicly humiliated and forced to carry the dead bodies through the streets.
The mob, shouting accusations and threats, is seen physically assaulting the suspects as onlookers watch in silence or cheer in support.
The identities of the deceased—a woman and her two children—have not been officially released, and the cause of their deaths remains unclear.
The incident reportedly took place in a remote village in Sinoe County.
No Arrests Yet as Police Urge Calm
While confirming that the video is under review by authorities, Superintendent Howard declined to say whether any arrests have been made.
“Maltreatment of suspects is unacceptable. Every citizen has the right to due process under the law,” she stressed. “We are calling on the public to cooperate with our investigation and allow the justice system to work.”
Growing Crisis: Mob Violence and Witchcraft Accusations on the Rise
The terrifying event is the latest in a growing number of incidents involving mob justice and witchcraft accusations in Liberia’s interior.
Human rights organizations and community leaders are now calling on the national government to act swiftly to prevent further violence.
Rights groups argue that ignorance, lack of access to justice, and deep-rooted superstitions are fueling dangerous trends of mob violence, especially in rural areas where law enforcement presence is limited.
Call for Accountability and Justice
The Liberia National Police are urging anyone with information to come forward. Meanwhile, Superintendent Howard reiterated the importance of following legal channels:
“We understand the public’s emotions, but we cannot allow vigilante justice to rule our communities,” she said.
As investigations continue, national attention is now focused on how Liberia will respond to this shocking act of violence—and whether justice will prevail for both the dead and the accused.
