MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Liberia National Police (LNP) has suspended two officers in connection with an unlawful entry into a vehicle parked at the Capitol Building in February 2025. The investigation, which was conducted by the Professional Standards Division (PSD), has uncovered misconduct by the officers involved, and further actions are being taken to determine the extent of their involvement in a reported theft.
The incident occurred on the morning of February 18, 2025, when a gray Nissan Jeep was found parked under the canopy of the Representative’s Wing at the Capitol Building. According to the LNP’s findings, Chief Inspector Frank P. Banda and Sergeant Sam C.F. Karbah were responsible for unlawfully entering and opening the vehicle. Banda has been suspended without pay for two months, while Karbah faces a one-month suspension. These actions follow a report made by Honorable Yekeh Y. Kolubah, who claimed that US$25,000, two million Liberian dollars, and several valuable items were stolen from the vehicle, including an iPhone, a computer, and jewelry valued at US$2,500.
The investigation has raised serious concerns, with accusations of police misconduct possibly linked to the theft. While the PSD has already taken disciplinary action against the officers, further investigations are underway to establish whether there is a direct connection between their actions and the missing items. If such a link is found, the officers will be referred to the Crimes Services Division for more thorough inquiry.
The investigation has also led to the identification of Jack Traore, who is alleged to have drilled the vehicle’s right-side door, a key detail in the ongoing inquiry. The LNP is now focused on analyzing video footage from the scene to identify other individuals who might be linked to the crime. These developments have raised questions about the conduct of police officers, especially in sensitive areas like the Capitol, where security and accountability should be of the highest priority.
The LNP has assured the public that it is committed to transparency and professional integrity in its operations. As the investigation continues, the police force has called for patience from the public and vowed to pursue the case with the diligence it deserves. This incident has highlighted the need for increased scrutiny within the police force, and the LNP is taking steps to address the allegations in an effort to restore public trust.
