LNP Concludes Investigation into Newport Street Incident; Legal and Disciplinary Actions Announced

The Liberia National Police (LNP) has concluded its investigation into the July 22, 2025 incident involving Madam Zainab Bah and Mr. Ibrahim Jalloh in the Newport Street Community, Central Monrovia. The incident occurred during a lawful power theft inspection conducted by the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) and has generated significant public concern, particularly following the circulation of a viral video showing a physical encounter between officers and Madam Bah. As part of our commitment to transparency and professional policing, the LNP hereby presents the investigative findings and resulting legal and administrative actions. Key Findings of the Investigation Following a comprehensive review by the LNP’s Professional Standards Department, the following conclusions were reached: • Madam Zainab Bah’s arrest was lawful. She was non-compliant and engaged in aggressive behavior toward officers, including throwing a bench and splashing hot soup, both considered criminal offenses. • While initial restraint was justified, Madam Bah later transitioned to passive resistance. At that point, officers were expected to prioritize de-escalation. Officer Alice M. Tokpah’s decision to forcibly remove a child without seeking alternative means was deemed inappropriate and showed disregard for the child’s safety. • The removal of Madam Bah’s head covering (hijab) was unnecessary and unjustified. • Officers and LEC personnel failed to accommodate Madam Bah’s language barrier. No effort was made to communicate through her husband or a translator, which could have prevented escalation. • Officer Tokpah’s actions constitute “Unsatisfactory Conduct” and “Unsatisfactory Performance” under the LNP Administrative Instruction on Discipline and Professional Standards. • No Physical Injuries: Madam Bah did not report any physical injuries during her interview, nor did her representatives. Legal Charges Filed • Madam Zainab Bah has been formally charged with: o Simple Assault – for throwing a bench and splashing hot soup o Preventing Arrest or Discharge of Official Duties – in violation of Chapter 12, Subchapter E, Section 12.2 of the Penal Law of Liberia o Disorderly Conduct – under Chapter 14, Section 14.21 of the Penal Law These charges are violations of the Revised Penal Code of the Republic of Liberia and are pending trial before a court of competent jurisdiction. • Mr. Ibrahim Jalloh has been formally charged with: o Power Theft – in violation of Chapter 15, Section 15.81 and the amended Section 15.88, paragraph 5C of the Penal Law of Liberia He is accused of tampering with LEC meters and bypassing billing mechanisms to evade lawful payment for electricity services. This offense is a criminal violation under Liberian law and is also pending trial. Administrative Actions • Officer Alice M. Tokpah has been suspended for one month without pay for misconduct during the arrest of Madam Bah. Her actions included the unjustified removal of the head covering and excessive physical handling during a phase of passive resistance. • Officer Prince W. Chebo has been fully exonerated. His conduct during the incident was found to be lawful and in accordance with police procedures. Conclusion The Liberia National Police thanks the public for its patience and cooperation throughout this investigation. We remain committed to transparency, accountability, and professionalism. All actions taken reflect our dedication to protecting the rights of all citizens and strengthening public trust through responsible and respectful policing.