MONROVIA – The Liberia National Police (LNP) has formally charged 54‑year‑old Mohammed D. Sheriff for allegedly operating an unregistered paramilitary organization in violation of Liberian law.
According to an official charge sheet issued at LNP Headquarters in Monrovia, Sheriff, a resident of Logan Town and native of Bong County, is charged under Chapter 11, Section 11.5 of the Penal Law of Liberia for engaging in paramilitary activities.
Police explained that the investigation was triggered by a social media post showing Sheriff and a group of individuals in mixed‑color, military-style uniforms during a gathering at the Fish Market Mosque in Sinkor on February 13, 2026. The group, identified as the National Fula Community Security Services (NFCSS), raised concerns about national security when photos and videos circulated online.
In response, the Ministry of Justice of Liberia instructed the LNP to conduct a thorough investigation into the group and its activities.
Sheriff was summoned to LNP Headquarters on February 18, 2026, where investigators formally informed him of his constitutional rights in the presence of his lawyer before questioning commenced.
During the probe, police determined that the National Fula Community Security Services is not registered with the Liberian government as a private security company. Investigators reported that the organization has approximately 70 members and lacks a formal leadership structure, granting Sheriff broad control over its operations.
“The investigation revealed that the group was operating outside the framework of the law and posed a potential risk to public safety,” an LNP spokesperson said. “All findings were documented and Sheriff has now been formally charged under the Penal Law.”
Authorities confirmed that Sheriff is expected to face trial, with the case forwarded to the Monrovia City Court for judicial review and prosecution.
The LNP emphasized its commitment to ensuring that all security organizations operate under the law and that unregistered paramilitary groups are held accountable.
“This action underscores our mandate to maintain public order and national security,” the police spokesperson added. “We encourage citizens to report any illegal security operations to the authorities immediately.”
The case has attracted attention on social media and within the local community, highlighting ongoing concerns over the proliferation of private security groups without proper government oversight.
Sheriff’s lawyer has confirmed that he is cooperating with authorities and is preparing for the upcoming legal proceedings.
The LNP has assured the public that all steps in the investigation were conducted according to Liberia’s legal and constitutional standards.
As the matter moves through the judicial system, authorities are calling for calm and stressing that due process will guide the prosecution.
The government continues to monitor other informal security groups nationwide to ensure compliance with national security laws.
Law enforcement officials reiterated that operating a paramilitary or private security organization without registration is illegal and punishable under Liberia’s Penal Code.
