Reports emerging from Gbarpolu indicate that a woman was reportedly manhandled and subjected to maltreatment after allegedly violating local cultural norms associated with the practices of a “Zoe.”
Multiple sources speaking to Hard Facts have confirmed the incident, though alternative accounts suggest she may have been accused of stealing livestock, including a chicken or goat.
The disturbing incident has generated significant concerns from local and national justice advocates, who have condemned the apparent inhumane treatment inflicted on the woman. Video footage circulating on social media captures the severity of the actions against her, drawing widespread attention to human rights violations in the region.
According to eyewitnesses, the woman was forcibly restrained and subjected to physical mistreatment by members of the local community, highlighting a troubling disregard for due process and the protection of individual rights. Advocates argue that such acts of vigilante justice violate both Liberian laws and internationally recognized human rights standards.
“We are deeply troubled by what we have seen in this footage. No individual should endure such treatment, regardless of allegations,” said one justice advocate from Monrovia. “Cultural norms and practices cannot be used as justification for inhumane or degrading treatment.
The law must prevail, and the perpetrators must be held accountable.” The incident has reignited discussions about the balance between traditional practices and modern legal protections in Liberia, particularly in remote counties where oversight and law enforcement can be limited.
Local authorities in Gbarpolu are reportedly aware of the incident and are under pressure from civil society groups to take immediate action.
Justice advocates are therefore calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the woman’s humiliation from the so-called local aggressors, urging that those responsible to face appropriate legal recourse.
They also advanced adequate public awareness campaigns to educate communities about human rights protections and the legal remedies available to victims of abuse.
This case underscores the urgent need for continued vigilance in safeguarding individual rights, especially for vulnerable groups in rural Liberia.
The Liberian public, civil society, and international partners are being urged to stand in solidarity with the victim and advocate for justice, fairness, and respect for the rule of law.
