By George C. Flomo
MONROVIA – Minister of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism, Jerolinmek Matthew Piah, has cautioned the public, particularly influential voices on social media, against prematurely defending individuals accused of crimes before the conclusion of police investigations.
Speaking Tuesday during the Ministry’s regular press briefing, Minister Piah referenced the Liberia National Police’s (LNP) ongoing investigation into an attempted armed robbery incident at the EcoBank branch on 11th Street, Sinkor, on August 6, 2025.
According to the police report presented at the briefing, the suspect, 44-year-old FOB Emery Johnson of Duport Road, Paynesville, entered the bank’s private banking room disguised with a nose mask and carrying a black backpack.
He allegedly produced a single-barrel shotgun, placed a 33-year-old female staff, identified as Alove Sillah, at gunpoint, and demanded money.
A physical struggle ensued for about 10 minutes as the suspect attempted to tape the victim’s mouth. She resisted and pressed the alarm button, alerting colleagues who restrained Johnson until the arrival of police officers.
Items recovered from the suspect included the shotgun, three rounds of ammunition, pepper spray, duct tape, and other personal belongings. CCTV footage reportedly confirms the sequence of events, and Johnson admitted to purchasing the firearm in Nimba County for US$60, claiming it was for personal protection.
Following investigations, the LNP charged Johnson with armed robbery, criminal attempt to commit murder, and possession and sale of a firearm for unlawful use all in violation of Liberia’s Penal Law. The case has been forwarded to court for prosecution.
However, Minister Piah expressed concern over what he called the “court of public opinion,” where individuals including “very eminent people” rushed to defend the suspect based on his social standing and professional background.
“No one knows the heart of another human being,” Piah said. “Don’t come to people’s defense away from investigations only because of who you know them to be. Status does not erase facts.”
The Minister criticized the tendency to judge cases based on personal relationships or societal standing, warning that such behavior undermines law enforcement. He urged the media and public to allow trained investigators to do their work before drawing conclusions.
Government Signs Solar Lighting Contracts for Urban Monrovia
In other developments, Minister Piah announced that the Ministry of Public Works, with World Bank funding through the Liberia Urban Resilience Project, has signed agreements with two local contractors — Quality Group Construction Company and Resco Incorporated — for the installation of solar streetlights in key urban communities.
The project covers corridors including Nezo to Pipeline, Wood Camp to Parker Paint, Zayzay Community to Duport Road, VOCA Mission, Waver Street, Clara Town, Doe Community, OAU Hotel Africa Road, Jamaica Road, Banjo Community Road, and Logan Town to New Kru Town.
The initiative is expected to improve road safety and reduce demand on the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) grid.
LWSC Unveils US$156.6M Strategic Plan
The Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC) has launched its 2025–2029 strategic plan, valued at US$156.6 million, and aimed at expanding water access and improving urban sanitation. Goals include doubling water connections from 15,000 to 30,000, increasing sewer connections from 1,560 to 3,000, and improving revenue collection efficiency from 57% to 95%.
Liberia to Host Regional Anti-Money Laundering Conference
Liberia will host the 44th High-Level Plenary and Technical Commission of the Inter-Governmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA) from November 17–21, 2025. The event will bring together regional regulators, government leaders, and international partners, boosting the local economy and showcasing Liberia’s capacity to host major events.
GIABA Director General Edwin Harris Jr., currently in Monrovia for high-level consultations, is expected to meet President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and other key officials to accelerate reforms in anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing.
Minister Piah closed the briefing by urging all Liberians to respect investigative processes, trust in the rule of law, and avoid shielding individuals from accountability based on social connections.