By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
MONROVIA – The Liberia National Police (LNP) has released its much-anticipated findings into the controversial July 22, 2025, incident involving Madam Zainab Bah and Mr. Ibrahim Jalloh, following weeks of public debate and scrutiny over the conduct of law enforcement officers during a power theft inspection.
The incident took place in the Newport Street Community of Central Monrovia during an operation by the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), aimed at uncovering illegal electricity connections.
A video of the arrest, which circulated widely on social media, showed a heated confrontation between police officers and Madam Bah, drawing national concern and calls for accountability.
According to the LNP’s Professional Standards Department, the arrest of Madam Bah was found to be lawful. She reportedly resisted the officers’ efforts and engaged in physical aggression, including throwing a bench and splashing hot soup at them—actions that are classified as criminal offenses under Liberian law.
However, the investigation also uncovered serious concerns about the manner in which officers responded once the initial confrontation had de-escalated. It was determined that while the early use of restraint may have been justified, Madam Bah eventually became passively resistant, at which point officers were expected to employ less forceful tactics.
The decision by Officer Alice M. Tokpah to forcibly separate a child from Madam Bah was found to be unnecessary and unsafe, particularly given the opportunity to seek alternative methods.
One of the most contentious revelations in the report was the removal of Madam Bah’s hijab during the arrest, an act that investigators deemed unnecessary and insensitive to her religious and cultural rights.
The report also criticized the officers and LEC personnel for failing to accommodate Madam Bah’s language barrier. No translator was brought in, nor was her husband consulted to assist with communication—an oversight the LNP admits may have contributed to the escalation of the situation.
Though no injuries were reported by Madam Bah or her representatives during interviews, the emotional and cultural impact of the encounter has sparked significant backlash, especially from Liberia’s Muslim and human rights communities.
As a result of the findings, Madam Zainab Bah has been charged with Simple Assault, Disorderly Conduct, and Preventing Arrest or Discharge of Official Duties. All charges fall under the Revised Penal Code of Liberia and will be handled in a court of competent jurisdiction.
Mr. Ibrahim Jalloh, identified as Madam Bah’s husband, is facing a separate charge of Power Theft. Authorities allege that he tampered with LEC meters and bypassed official billing systems to avoid payment for electricity, which is a criminal offense under Liberian law.
Disciplinary action has also been taken within the police force. Officer Alice Tokpah has been suspended for one month without pay. The LNP cited her excessive use of force, unjustified removal of the hijab, and overall mishandling of the situation as reasons for her suspension. In contrast, Officer Prince W. Chebo was cleared of any wrongdoing, with investigators concluding that his conduct during the arrest remained within professional standards.
The LNP used the press conference to reaffirm its commitment to transparency, public accountability, and the fair treatment of all Liberians regardless of ethnicity, religion, or language.
The statement acknowledged public frustration and called for continued cooperation and patience as the legal processes move forward.
As the legal proceedings begin and the community processes the implications of the investigation, this case is poised to remain a focal point in ongoing conversations about policing, civil rights, and public trust in Liberia.
