MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Liberia National Police (LNP) has firmly denied the rumors circulating on social media that a man seen unconscious and being assisted by LNP officers during a recent violent protest in Congo Town has died. The man in question, Prince Zammie, a 43-year-old resident of the Fiamah community, is currently receiving medical treatment at the John F. Kennedy Memorial Medical Center, according to an official police press release issued on Friday, August 23, 2024.
The LNP emphasized that Zammie was rescued and rushed to the hospital by officers who were on duty at the protest site, countering claims that he had succumbed to his injuries. The police statement strongly condemned the spread of false information, labeling it as harmful and misleading. The LNP urged the public to verify the sources of their information before disseminating rumors that could potentially incite panic and distrust in the community.
“We are committed to keeping the public informed about the health status of Prince Zammie and other joint security officers who also sustained injuries during Thursday’s protest,” the LNP statement read, stressing the importance of calm and responsible sharing of information during such sensitive times.
In addition to addressing the rumors surrounding Zammie’s condition, the LNP announced that fourteen individuals were arrested during the protest and have been charged with various crimes. The suspects, whose identities have been disclosed by the police, include Aaron Soe, Emmanuel D. Sumo, Korpo L. Boakai, Gifty Johnson, Elijah D. Gweh, Christian K. Perry, Itea F. Borbor, Varney D. Wilson, Lawrance G. Bessiah, Samuel Joe, Joseph Z. Benson, Derrick Sekeh, Odonnell A. Corbin, and Alieu S. Brima.
The charges against them are serious and include offenses such as Criminal Attempt to Commit Murder, Criminal Facilitation, Criminal Solicitation, Criminal Conspiracy, Physical Obstruction of Government Function, Aggravated Assault, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, Criminal Mischief, Riot, Failure to Disperse, Disorderly Conduct, and Obstructing Highway and Other Public Passages.
The LNP reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and order within Liberia, urging all citizens to refrain from violent activities and to cooperate with law enforcement authorities. “We remain steadfast in our duty to protect the public and uphold the law,” the statement concluded, calling for community support in these efforts to ensure safety and stability.
This development comes amid heightened tensions and increased scrutiny of the LNP’s actions during protests, underscoring the need for accurate information and responsible reporting to foster trust and understanding between the police and the public.
