MONROVIA – Preliminary investigations into the fire that destroyed Capitol Building last month indicate that the blaze was intentionally set, according to findings from the Liberia National Police (LNP) and the Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS). Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, LNP Inspector General Gregory Coleman revealed that evidence strongly suggests the fire was an act of arson, with multiple points of ignition discovered at the scene.
Inspector General Coleman explained that a thorough examination of the building’s electrical system ruled out any faults as the cause of the fire. “At the time of the incident, the grid was still supplying electricity. This confirms that an electrical malfunction was not responsible,” he stated. Investigators instead uncovered a container with a flammable substance, further supporting the conclusion that the fire was deliberate.
The blaze, which engulfed the Capitol’s joint chambers on the morning of December 18, 2024, has left Liberia struggling with the aftermath of what appears to be a targeted attack on a critical government institution. Director General of the Fire Service, Col. G. Warsuweh Barvoul, corroborated Coleman’s findings, noting that flammable liquids had been used to ignite the fire. “From our analysis, it is clear that an accelerant was involved,” Barvoul stated.
Inspector General Coleman confirmed that several individuals connected to the incident have been identified as persons of interest. While their identities remain undisclosed, Coleman indicated that these individuals have been invited for questioning. “If they refuse to cooperate, we will not hesitate to issue arrest warrants,” he said. The investigation has already led to several arrests, though some detainees have been released on personal recognizance or signed for by legal representatives.
It can be recalled in December 2024, police highlighted a Facebook video allegedly posted by Representative Frank Saah Foko in which he reportedly threatened to burn the legislative chambers. “Representative Foko made a public statement about burning the chambers, and just a day later, the fire occurred. He needs to clarify his remarks,” Inspector General Coleman stated. Both Foko and Speaker Fonati Koffa were subsequently summoned for questioning. While Koffa and Foko spent a total of nine hours at the police station, Koffa later clarified that his presence was merely to accompany his colleague, Representative Foko. Additionally, Koffa denied any involvement in the devastating fire that engulfed the country’s legislature.
The timing of the fire has fueled suspicions, as it occurred a day after heated protests over attempts to remove Speaker Koffa from his position. The protests turned chaotic, leading to several arrests, including that of an aide to former President George Weah. Police have not ruled out the possibility that the fire was linked to these political tensions.
President Joseph Boakai has expressed deep disappointment over the incident and has instructed security agencies to leave no stone unturned in their investigation. A $5,000 reward has been announced for anyone with information leading to the identification of those responsible for the fire.
In the wake of the fire, security has been tightened around the Capitol Building, with the investigation site under strict surveillance to preserve evidence. Inspector General Coleman emphasized the need for public cooperation and urged citizens not to politicize the investigation. “This is a serious matter that requires factual investigation. The police remain committed to ensuring justice and upholding the rule of law,” he said.
The incident has intensified the ongoing power struggle within the House of Representatives. A faction of lawmakers claims to have successfully removed Speaker Koffa, a move contested by another group as unconstitutional. Despite a Supreme Court ruling, the dispute remains unresolved, deepening the crisis surrounding the legislative body.
