A troubling incident has surfaced involving members of Liberia’s security forces, following allegations that an Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) serviceman was brutally assaulted by an Emergency Response Unit (ERU) officer and two unidentified accomplices in Careysburg, Montserrado County. According to reports, Corporal David N. Watson, an AFL soldier, was allegedly attacked on the night of September 3, 2025, in the Palm Spring Community.
The assault was reportedly carried out by ERU Officer Decee Homer and two unidentified men, believed to be civilian associates. The incident occurred around 10:00 PM on Palm Spring Main Street, several hours after a dispute earlier that day concerning accusations of impersonation. In an official complaint filed by Cpl. Watson on September 5, he recounted that tensions initially escalated at approximately 4:30 PM during a meeting attended by Sgt. Weefar Beyan (AFL), ERU Officer Homer, civilian Joe Zaragba, and private security officer, Samuel Partuah.
Zaragba, accused Partuah of impersonating a soldier, but Partuah later presented valid identification showing he was employed as a private security guard. Following clarification, Sgt. Beyan and Cpl. Watson reportedly left the scene. However, later that evening, as Cpl. Watson was walking home, he was allegedly confronted by Officer Homer and two unidentified individuals. The men accused him of allowing Partuah to walk free after the earlier dispute. “I tried to explain that I had no authority to detain Mr. Partuah,” Watson stated in his complaint. “But they did not listen. They pushed me to the ground and started beating me.” Cpl. Watson further alleged that the attackers used sticks during the assault, leaving him with a severe shoulder injury.
He eventually escaped and sought help from a passerby identified only as “Josephus,” who assisted him in contacting the Camp Sandy Ware Military Barracks. A rescue team from the barracks promptly responded, transporting him first to the base and later to the 14 Military Hospital, where he is currently receiving medical treatment. The Armed Forces of Liberia is yet to issue an official statement on the matter. However, military sources have confirmed that an internal inquiry has been initiated to determine the facts surrounding the incident.
Additionally, the Liberia National Police (LNP) and ERU leadership are expected to launch their own investigations into Officer Homer’s alleged involvement. The identities of the two men who reportedly joined Homer in the assault remain unknown. The case has raised broader concerns within Liberia’s security sector. Human rights advocates and legal analysts have urged swift action to ensure accountability and prevent future clashes between state security institutions.
“This is a serious matter,” remarked a legal expert closely following the case. “If substantiated, it points to a worrying breakdown in coordination and respect among the nation’s security services.” As investigations continue, Cpl. Watson is urging authorities to ensure a fair process. “I believe in the rule of law,” he stressed. “All I want is a fair and transparent investigation.” The outcome of the inquiry is expected to be closely monitored by the public, as it could have significant implications for discipline and professionalism within Liberia’s security sector.
