The Special Investigative Team of the Joint Security has disclosed that twenty-three (23) people have been arrested and investigated, in connection to the recent political violent incident between supporters of the ruling Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) and opposition Unity Party (UP) in Foya, Lofa County that resulted into the death of at least 3 persons.
Making the disclosures Monday at the Liberia National Police headquarters in Monrovia, Police Inspector General Col. Patrick Sudue said the Special Investigative team has arrested twenty-three through the Video footage from the crime scene.
According to him, the Joint Security Team is still in search of additional persons involved in the September 29 incident that led to the death of three people.
Upon the violent incident, the Joint Security dispatched its Special Investigation Team for the 2023 General and Presidential Elections with a mandate by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General to fast-track the investigation and report its findings soon.
The September 29 political incident sparked many concerns and condemnation ranging from the US Embassy, United Nations, ECOWAS, ruling CDC, and opposition UP among many others.
The U.S. Embassy in their September 30, statement release condemned the violence, expressed sincere condolences to the families of the victims, and urged Liberians to maintain the peace noting that Political differences must be solved at the ballot box peacefully, and never through violence as violence is never the answer.
The violence erupted amid political tensions in the region. According to reports, members of the Unity Party in Lofa County were accused of vandalizing newly erected streetlights and attempting to destroy newly constructed infrastructure, allegedly belonging to Representative Thomas Fallah. However, the Unity Party campaign spokesman, Mo Ali, claimed that the incident was triggered by supporters of Rep. Fallah, who allegedly began throwing stones at Unity Party members from his fence.
Col. Sudue further that the JSSIT will make sure that everyone who is involved in the incident is brought to book to face the full weight of the Law.
He encouraged every Liberian to remain calm and peaceful ahead of the Tuesday, October 10 Presidential and Legislative Elections.
Col. Sudue disclosed the Liberia National Police in collaboration with the Joint Security will be robust in dealing with anyone found in electoral violence.
Many calls have emerged to supporters of all political parties to desist from violence during and after these elections, and strictly adhere to the Farmington Declaration signed by all political parties.
Figo Mansaray is a Liberian Journalist for over 10 years and currently working with Kukatonon Media Inc and AYV Media Empire.
Figo, a prospective Graduate at the University of Liberia can be contacted via +231777489052/+231881734014 and mfmansaray2015@gmail.com