LOCAL NEWS
GANTA, NIMBA COUNTY – The Liberia National Police says it has begun an active investigation into an allegation of rape involving one of its officers assigned to the Women and Children Protection Section, Ganta Zone 1 Base, in Nimba County.
According to a statement from the LNP, preliminary reports indicate that on Friday, May 8, 2026, a complaint of theft was formally reported to the Women and Children Protection Section by the parent of a 16-year-old female juvenile.
By: Trokon S. Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
The juvenile stands accused of allegedly taking money from her parent’s mobile money business. The statement said that following the initial complaint, and pending further inquiry, the juvenile was temporarily placed in protective police custody in keeping with ongoing investigative procedures.
“Preliminary reports indicate that on Friday, May 8, 2026, a complaint involving an allegation of theft was formally reported to the Women and Children Protection Section by the parent of a 16-year-old female juvenile. According to the complaint, the juvenile was accused of allegedly taking money from her parent’s mobile money business. Following the initial complaint and pending further inquiry, the juvenile was temporarily placed in protective police custody in keeping with ongoing investigative procedures,” the LNP statement said.
The LNP noted that while in custody, Patrolman Wessay W. Weah was assigned responsibility for the juvenile’s security and supervision. During the early morning hours of Saturday, May 9, 2026, the juvenile later returned to her family and subsequently alleged that she had been sexually assaulted while in police custody by the officer assigned to guard duty.
“Following the complaint, the Liberia National Police immediately initiated investigative actions. Patrolman Wessay W. Weah was promptly arrested and placed under police detention pending the outcome of the investigation,” the statement said.
Authorities say the juvenile was also escorted to a recognized medical facility for examination and care. “Preliminary medical findings reportedly indicate findings consistent with allegations of sexual assault. Additional medical and forensic reviews remain ongoing as part of the investigation.”
The Liberia National Police said it is also conducting a comprehensive review into the circumstances surrounding the juvenile’s departure from police custody, including whether any procedural violations, negligence, misconduct, or criminal liability may have occurred.
Meanwhile, the accused officer remains in police custody pending investigation and is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
The LNP has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward sexual and gender-based violence, abuse of authority, misconduct, and all forms of actions inconsistent with the professional standards and ethical obligations of the institution.
“Any officer found in violation of the law or established professional standards will be subjected to both administrative and criminal proceedings in accordance with Liberian law,” the statement noted.
The LNP further emphasized its commitment to protecting the dignity, welfare, and rights of victims, particularly juveniles and vulnerable persons, while ensuring that all investigations are conducted in a professional, impartial, and evidence-based manner.
The investigation into the matter remains ongoing, and further updates will be provided as developments warrant.
