MONROVIA, LIBERIA – On January 14, 2025, the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) handed over its investigative report concerning the deadly Kinjor shooting to Liberia’s Minister of Justice, Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh. The report addresses the tragic events that occurred in Grand Cape Mount County in February 2024, where three lives were lost, and multiple individuals were injured. The Ministry of Justice confirmed the submission through a statement issued by Jutonu Y. Kollie, Sr., Director of Press and Public Affairs, on January 15, 2025.
In a presentation of the findings, Cllr. D. Sylvester Rennie, CCRB Chairman and outgoing President of the Liberia National Bar Association, outlined the investigation’s process. He revealed that the inquiry involved visits to the incident site, as well as interviews with local residents, victims’ families, law enforcement officers, and other relevant parties. Although the specifics of the report remain confidential for the time being, it includes a set of recommendations aimed at addressing the underlying causes of the violent event.
Cllr. Rennie also took the opportunity to appeal for additional support for the CCRB. He emphasized the importance of securing funding for the Board through the national budget to facilitate future investigations. He expressed gratitude for his time as Chairman and acknowledged the leadership of Justice Minister Tweh.
In his response, Justice Minister Tweh commended the CCRB for its thorough investigation and affirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the Board’s recommendations to uphold justice and accountability. He recognized the importance of adequate funding for the CCRB to enhance its capacity to carry out its mission of fostering public trust and promoting justice.
Minister Tweh also celebrated Cllr. Rennie’s significant contributions to the Liberia National Bar Association, praising his leadership and legacy of integrity. He expressed hope that Rennie’s example would inspire future generations of legal professionals.
The Kinjor shooting remains a somber chapter in Liberia’s recent history. In late February 2024, protests broke out in the Bea Mountain Mining Corporation (BMMC) area, sparked by local demands for the company to honor its concession agreements. Protesters called for the removal of BMMC’s Country Manager, Debbah Allen, improved healthcare and welfare for employees, and the provision of electricity for surrounding communities.
These protests escalated into violent confrontations with law enforcement, resulting in three deaths and 14 police officers being injured, with one officer struck by a gunshot. Property damage was also extensive, with heavy machinery, police barracks, and a local police station being destroyed or set on fire.
The CCRB’s investigation aimed to determine the causes behind the unrest and to identify those responsible for the violence. While the details of the findings remain sealed, their release is expected to offer valuable insight into the incident and guide measures to prevent similar events in the future.
