By: Melvin Flomo
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The Liberia National Police (LNP) has formally charged a Fulani woman, Zainab Bah, and her husband, Ibrahim Jalloh, with multiple offenses, including power theft and disorderly conduct, following a heated altercation during an electricity inspection in the Newport Street Community of Central Monrovia.
According to LNP spokesperson, Deputy Commissioner Cecelia G. Clarke, Madam Bah faces charges of Simple Assault and Disorderly Conduct after allegedly throwing a bench and splashing hot soup on officers during the confrontation. Her actions, police say, violated Chapter 12, Subchapter E, Section 12.2 (Preventing Arrest or Discharge of Official Duties) and Chapter 14, Section 14.21 (Disorderly Conduct) of Liberia’s Revised Penal Code.
Mr. Jalloh, on the other hand, has been charged with Power Theft under Chapter 15, Section 15.81 and Amended Section 15.88, Paragraph 5C, for allegedly tampering with Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) meters to avoid paying for electricity.
Viral Video Sparks Public Outcry
The July 22 arrest gained widespread attention after a video of the incident went viral, prompting public protests and calls for accountability. The footage showed a physical confrontation between Madam Bah and LNP officers, raising concerns about police conduct and cultural sensitivity.
“In keeping with our commitment to transparency and professional policing, the LNP is releasing both the investigative findings and the resulting legal actions,” said Madam Clarke at a press briefing in Monrovia.
Officer Suspended for Misconduct
In response to the public outcry, the LNP’s Professional Standards Department conducted a review, resulting in administrative action against one officer. Officer Alice M. Tokpah has been suspended for one month without pay for misconduct during the arrest. Her infractions include the unjustified removal of Madam Bah’s hijab, forcibly separating a child without exploring safer alternatives, and excessive physical handling even after the situation had de-escalated.
Madam Clarke noted that officers and LEC staff also failed to accommodate Madam Bah’s language barrier, neglecting to use her husband or a translator to communicate effectively, a step that could have helped ease tensions.
“These actions showed disregard for the subject’s dignity and the child’s safety,” Clarke emphasized. However, she also clarified that no physical injuries were reported by Madam Bah or her representatives.
Officer Exonerated
In contrast, Officer Prince W. Chebo was exonerated following the investigation. His actions were deemed consistent with lawful enforcement standards.
The case is now pending before a court of competent jurisdiction.
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