But Many Protesters Were Not Regular Motorcylists
They face charges of armed robbery, criminal conspiracy, and theft of property after reportedly stealing a black Bajaj motorcycle from a motorcyclist…
By James Myking Suah
Ganta, Liberia — The Liberia National Police (LNP) in Nimba County has picked up six individuals associated with the recent protest held by motorcyclists in Gompa City.
According to Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Larmie Mendein, the six arrested were identified as key leaders during the protest. The arrests were made following a review of video footage captured at the protest site.
The individuals arrested include Timothy Yeanay, Darius Saplay, Rujar Sumo, Joseph Harris, Myres Weah, and Daniel Dolo. They have been charged with several offenses, including rioting, criminal mischief, theft of property, aggravated assault, criminal attempt to commit arson, and disorderly conduct.
ACP Mendein stated that the group has already been questioned and is expected to be forwarded to court for prosecution. He also indicated that additional arrests may follow as investigations into the protest continue.
The Police commander clarified that many of the participants in the protest were not regular motorcyclists but individuals suspected to be involved in drug dealing.
They were reportedly expressing their frustrations over the recent crackdown on illicit drugs by local law enforcement and the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA).
“We possess video evidence showing nearly all participants in the protest, including those who set up roadblocks and burned tires. They will be apprehended and prosecuted according to the law,” ACP Mendein asserted.
In a separate incident, the police are still investigating the alleged killing of a man named Roland Johnson. ACP Mendein stated that those arrested in connection with the protest are not related to Johnson’s death, which occurred prior to their apprehension.
The police have identified two suspects, known as Johnathan Dahn (alias Enforcer) and Amos Boayou (popularly referred to as Third Period), aged 19 and 20, respectively. They face charges of armed robbery, criminal conspiracy, and theft of property after reportedly stealing a black Bajaj motorcycle from a motorcyclist outside Jestina’s Bar and Restaurant shortly before Johnson’s death.
Both suspects were caught after residents of Bunadin expressed suspicions, believing that they may have been involved in Johnson’s death due to their connection to the same motorcycle. However, it was later established that the stolen bike’s documentation did not match the motorcycle Johnson was riding at the time of his demise.
The rightful owner of the stolen motorcycle has since presented original documents matching the bike taken by Dahn and Boayou. Both individuals have been charged and are also set for prosecution in court.
The LNP continues to investigate the protests and associated criminal activities to ensure justice is served and community safety is maintained.