By James T. Brooks
MONROVIA – The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) has summarily dismissed two officers following the circulation of a disturbing social media video showing them assaulting a female suspect in custody. The move follows a wave of public outrage and renewed demands for accountability within Liberia’s law enforcement agencies.
The dismissals were announced on Thursday, January 8, 2026, by LDEA Officer-in-Charge Fitzgerald T. M. Biago. During a press conference in Monrovia, Biago characterized the officers’ actions as a grave breach of public trust and a direct violation of the agency’s code of conduct.
Evidence of Abuse
The controversy began earlier this month when a graphic video surfaced on Facebook and WhatsApp. The footage, captured by an unidentified bystander, appeared to show uniformed officers physically abusing a woman who was already under arrest and incapacitated.
The video triggered immediate condemnation from civil society organizations and human rights advocates, who argued that the footage provided undeniable proof of the “culture of impunity” often cited by critics of the security sector.
Internal Probe and Confession
In a swift response to the public backlash, the LDEA identified the involved personnel as Solomon Gbondo and Faith Willie. Both were immediately disrobed and referred to the Board of Internal Inquiry and Professional Standards (BIIPS).
“No officer is above the law,” Biago told reporters. “Rank, influence, or personal connections will not shield anyone from accountability.”
The internal investigation, which concluded on January 6, 2026, included structured interviews and cross-examinations. According to the LDEA, both Gbondo and Willie admitted to the misconduct, acknowledging that their physical assault of the suspect violated agency regulations. The board subsequently classified the incident as “severe unprofessional misconduct” under Section 45.8 of the disciplinary code.
A Push for Reform
The dismissal of Gbondo and Willie marks a rare instance where viral digital evidence has led to immediate and maximum administrative sanctions. To prevent future occurrences, Biago disclosed that the LDEA is currently prioritizing retraining. Currently, 110 officers are undergoing professional development at the Liberia National Police Training Academy, with senior staff scheduled for specialized courses on human rights and modern policing standards.
This incident unfolded during a period of heightened scrutiny for the LDEA. It follows recent internal allegations of assault involving senior leadership—claims the agency previously dismissed after a review. However, for the public, the swift action taken this week serves as a necessary, if overdue, signal of reform.
Officer-in-Charge Biago concluded with a stern reminder to all active personnel: “The uniform is a symbol of trust. It is not a license to abuse.”
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