By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokinseokin@gmail.com
Monrovia — The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has expressed deep dismay over a viral video circulating on social media that shows a police officer forcibly dragging a woman during an attempted arrest.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Ministry strongly condemned what it described as an “excessive and dehumanizing” act by the officer, emphasizing that such conduct falls far below the professional standards expected of law enforcement personnel.
“While we recognize the importance of upholding the rule of law and addressing complaints through appropriate channels, the Ministry strongly condemns the excessive and dehumanizing manner in which the woman was handled,” the statement said.
The Ministry stressed that there are more appropriate and professional ways to engage individuals in ongoing investigations, without resorting to unnecessary force or public humiliation.
Calling for accountability, the Ministry urged the Ministry of Justice and the Liberia National Police to launch an impartial investigation into the incident and ensure that justice is served.
“No woman should be subjected to unnecessary force or humiliation in the course of police operations,” the Ministry added, affirming its solidarity with the woman involved in the incident.
In response to the situation, the Ministry announced it is actively engaging with the police while also providing the affected woman with psychosocial support and care.
Although the Ministry reaffirmed its position against any acts of violence or wrongdoing toward law enforcement, it cautioned against the use of excessive force during police operations. The statement also encouraged the public to cooperate respectfully with the justice system.
“The Ministry remains committed to promoting the rights and dignity of women and girls in Liberia,” the release concluded, pledging to keep the public informed on the progress of the investigation and to continue advocating for a more gender-sensitive approach to policing.
