By: Melvin Flomo
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MONROVIA, Liberia — Deputy Information Minister Daniel Sando has defended the Liberia National Police against public criticism over the contrasting handling of two high-profile rape cases, involving suspended Deputy Minister Bryant McGill and Ministry of Agriculture contractor Sando Kromah.
Speaking Thursday at the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing, Sando stressed that the police have given “no special treatment” to any suspect. He explained that the circumstances surrounding the two cases were different, which accounts for why Kromah is incarcerated while McGill remains free pending investigation.
“In one case, evidence was immediately available, the suspect was caught in the room with the victim,” Sando said, referencing Kromah’s arrest. “In the other case involving the suspended Deputy Minister, investigators need to gather enough evidence to establish probable cause. The police have no interest in who the accused is; their only concern is to investigate properly.”
Kromah, 34, was arrested on September 24 after police alleged that he sexually assaulted a 14-year-old girl at his Vai Town apartment. A medical examination confirmed signs of abuse, and he is now being held at the Monrovia Central Prison awaiting trial.
Sando further noted that the government acted swiftly by suspending McGill to avoid any perception of interference with the ongoing probe. “This is why the President suspended the official because people thought the man was untouchable. But the facts and circumstances in the two cases are not the same,” he emphasized.
While police have yet to disclose details of their investigation into McGill, Sando assured the public that the authorities remain committed to pursuing justice in both cases. “The police will follow the evidence,” he said. “It is not about who is accused, but about the strength of the case before the courts.”
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