By: George C Flomo
MONROVIA – Liberia’s Inspector General of Police, Hon. Gregory O.W. Coleman, has addressed the public on three major ongoing incidents—ranging from a fatal confrontation in Congo Town, a gruesome mob killing in Johnsonville, and the ongoing investigation into the alleged rape case involving suspended Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, Bryant McGill.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT) regular press briefing, IG Coleman said the Liberia National Police (LNP) remains committed to transparency and timely communication to reduce misinformation and speculation surrounding critical national incidents.
“Incidents occur, and it is our responsibility to put out messages immediately based on the facts available—to reduce speculation and close the gap of misinformation, which is now becoming the order of the day,” IG Coleman stated.
Congo Town Incident: Stabbing and Fatal Shooting
The first case highlighted involved a stabbing and subsequent shooting in the LACC community, Congo Town, involving a resident identified as Mr. Matthew Mulbah.
According to the Inspector General, on Wednesday, October 8, officers from Zone 3, Depot 1 received a distress call reporting that a man in the community was behaving abnormally and posing a potential threat to others. Police officers responded promptly but, upon arrival, found Mr. Mulbah calm and cooperative.
He reportedly questioned the officers’ presence, demanding a warrant and threatening to sue them for breaking into his home. The officers, finding no immediate threat, withdrew and advised the family to contact mental health professionals if necessary.
Later, the family contacted the ES Grant Hospital, which dispatched a nurse, identified only as Michael. However, the nurse reportedly sought the assistance of off-duty police officers without officially notifying the central command. These officers independently accompanied him to the scene without following standard operational procedures or reporting through the proper chain of command.
While attempting to restrain Mr. Mulbah, one of the officers was stabbed and rushed to the JFK Medical Center. In the chaos that followed, the suspect allegedly attacked another officer with a cutlass, stabbing him in the arm. A violent struggle ensued, leading to the discharge of three warning shots.
Despite efforts to de-escalate, the suspect continued to pose an imminent threat, prompting an officer to open fire, fatally injuring Mr. Mulbah. He was later pronounced dead at JFK.
“We regret the incident,” IG Coleman said, confirming that a detailed investigation is ongoing. “The case is being reviewed under the police use-of-force continuum to ensure all actions were proportionate and justified.”
He added that officers who responded independently without authorization are also under investigation, emphasizing that the LNP is committed to accountability and professional standards.
Johnsonville Mob Killing: Police Condemn “Barbaric” Act
The second case discussed was the brutal killing of Mr. Prince Yarlu in the Johnsonville community on Sunday, October 12.
According to IG Coleman, Yarlu had visited a relative in the area when an angry group of residents stormed the home, accusing him of being a motorcycle thief. Despite his attempt to defend himself, the mob violently dragged him outside and killed him — an act that was recorded and circulated on social media.
“We strongly condemn that action,” IG Coleman said firmly. “It is a complete violation of his rights, a violation of humanity, and it speaks to how low our society has fallen when citizens take justice into their own hands.”
Police have so far arrested six suspects, while others, including the primary perpetrator, remain at large. The Inspector General assured the public that all those involved would be arrested and prosecuted.
“We cannot allow a society where people ignore the rule of law and execute others on mere suspicion,” he stressed. “Justice will be served.”
Update on Rape Case Involving Suspended Deputy Minister Bryant McGill
Addressing the sensitive case of the alleged rape of a 14-year-old girl involving suspended Deputy Minister Bryant McGill, IG Coleman revealed that police investigations are ongoing, though the evidence so far has not established probable cause for arrest.
He explained that the police have completed analysis of McGill’s phone and cell tower records, which did not reveal incriminating evidence. The next phase involves DNA testing, but technical limitations within the country have delayed the process.
“We have requested international assistance for the DNA analysis,” Coleman disclosed. “Unfortunately, our local machines are not operational.”
He emphasized that while public emotion is high, the police must remain objective and guided by evidence.
“We cannot allow our personal emotions to lead the investigation. Something did happen to the little girl, and we will get to the bottom of it,” he said.
The Inspector General noted that while McGill has already been suspended, the investigation remains open.
“No one is above the law,” Coleman reiterated. “We will follow the evidence, not public pressure.”
Call for Calm and Rule of Law
IG Coleman concluded his remarks by calling on the public to remain calm, cooperate with law enforcement, and reject mob justice and misinformation.
“As a society, we must uphold the rule of law. The Liberia National Police is committed to protecting every citizen and ensuring justice, but we cannot do it alone. We need the public’s support to report, not retaliate.”
The press briefing highlighted the LNP’s renewed commitment to transparency, professionalism, and the rule of law amid rising public concern over violent incidents across the country.