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LNP DENIED ACCESS TO FORMER PRESIDENT WEAH’S RESIDENCE DURING FIRE INVESTIGATION

MONROVIA – The Liberia National Police (LNP) has reported that its forensic team was denied access to the residence of former President George Weah on 9th Street, Sinkor, as investigations continue into a fire that gutted the property on Wednesday, September 24, 2025. The LNP confirmed the restriction in a statement released on Friday, September 26, 2025, highlighting the challenges investigators face in accessing the scene.

According to the statement, upon arrival, the LNP Forensic Team was informed by Mr. Jack N. Nyanapee, Special Agent in Charge of the premises, that the residence was closed and that no instructions had been given to permit entry for the ongoing investigation. Follow-up calls were reportedly made, but no response had been received as of the time of the statement.

The LNP assured the public of its commitment to conducting impartial, professional, and lawful investigations in all cases, regardless of an individual’s status, political affiliation, or position. The statement emphasized that no one is above the law, and the police remain dedicated to upholding rule of law while protecting lives, property, and democratic stability.

While the Liberia Fire Service maintains its mandate to determine the technical cause of fires, the LNP forensic team continues to provide investigative support to ensure transparency, accountability, and public confidence. Updates on the investigation will be provided as the process unfolds.

The LNP also expressed concern and solidarity with former President Weah, Honorable Johnson, their families, and all affected by the fire incident. The police urged cooperation from all parties to ensure a thorough and credible investigation.

Meanwhile, Deputy Information Minister Daniel Sando voiced frustration over the reported refusal to allow the investigation team access to the former president’s residence. “It is unfortunate that the former President is not leading by example,” Sando stated. He criticized what he described as sweeping allegations by the CDC that the fire was a deliberate act by individuals associated with the government.

Sando stressed that rejecting the entry of firefighters and investigators after the blaze was contained does not constitute responsible leadership. “After the fire outbreak at the home of the former President, the CDC issued a statement claiming it was deliberately caused by people in government. We will not respond to these sweeping allegations, but denying access to your own home after the firefighters extinguished the blaze is not leadership,” he added.

The CDC condemned the fire at the residence of its political leader, describing the incident as a premeditated act intended to threaten the former president’s safety and destabilize national peace. In a press release signed by National Chairman Atty. Janga A. Kowo, the party referenced past instances when Weah faced hostility upon returning to Liberia, including violent confrontations at Roberts International Airport with Armed Forces of Liberia personnel reportedly clashing with CDC supporters.

The coalition claimed that similar tensions occurred during Weah’s most recent return, noting that armed police officers were stationed at the airport and several partisans were allegedly manhandled, handcuffed, or detained. CDC leadership warned that these incidents highlight ongoing threats against the former president and his supporters.

In addition, the CDC accused the Unity Party (UP) of spreading disinformation related to the fire, including circulating a fake AI-generated image purportedly showing Weah’s bedroom. The party described these actions as deceptive attempts to mislead the public and tarnish the former president’s image.

Neighbors and local residents reportedly assisted in containing the blaze before the Liberia Fire Service arrived, helping to minimize damage to surrounding properties. The extent of the damage to Weah’s residence is still being assessed as investigators continue their work.

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