MONROVIA – The Liberia National Police (LNP) has announced a sweeping set of measures in response to the controversial April 14 protest, including an independent investigation into alleged excessive use of force and the immediate withdrawal of all charges against arrested demonstrators.
In a press release issued Thursday, April 16, the LNP said the actions were ordered by the Inspector General of Police as part of efforts to ensure accountability, transparency, and respect for constitutional rights following the protest, which drew public concern over the conduct of security forces.
Central to the police response is the launch of a comprehensive After-Action Review (AAR), aimed at reconstructing the events of the protest and evaluating operational decisions. According to the LNP, the review will analyze police conduct, public order management strategies, and supporting evidence, including images and documentation, with the goal of strengthening future operations and reinforcing professional standards.
More significantly, the police high command has mandated a full-scale, independent investigation into allegations that officers used excessive force during the protest. The probe will examine reported incidents involving arrests, injuries, and property damage, while also assessing whether officers adhered to established use-of-force guidelines.
The LNP noted that the investigation will further evaluate media and social media narratives surrounding the protest, including concerns about misinformation and disinformation, while determining both individual and command-level accountability where necessary. Authorities have promised that all officers under review will be granted due process in line with Liberian law.
In what appears to be a move aimed at easing tensions, the Inspector General has also ordered the immediate withdrawal of all criminal charges against individuals arrested during the protest. The LNP described the decision as a step toward de-escalation, fairness, and national cohesion, though it emphasized that the State reserves the right to pursue charges if credible evidence of serious criminal conduct emerges.
“The right to peaceful assembly and expression is fundamental and will be respected,” the LNP stated, adding that maintaining public order must always be balanced with proportionality and restraint.
The announcement comes amid growing public scrutiny and criticism from civil society actors following reports of clashes between police and protesters. The LNP acknowledged these concerns and pledged that any officer found to have violated the law or professional ethics would be held fully accountable.
As investigations and reviews proceed, the police have called on citizens, the media, and civil society organizations to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and cooperate with the ongoing processes.
The LNP reaffirmed its commitment to institutional accountability, human rights, and continuous reform, signaling what could be a pivotal moment in restoring public trust in Liberia’s law enforcement system.
