Monrovia, Liberia – Inspector General Gregory Coleman of the Liberia National Police (LNP) has vehemently denied allegations that the LNP attempted to bribe John Nyanti, a key suspect in the high-profile arson attack on the Capitol Building. The bribery claims, widely circulated in local media, had ignited public criticism and fueled debates about the integrity of Liberia’s justice system.
At a press briefing held on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT), IG Coleman addressed the media and the Liberian public with unwavering clarity. He described the bribery claims as “entirely false, misleading, and unsubstantiated.”
“Let me make it absolutely clear: at no point in time did the Liberia National Police engage with Mr. John Nyanti concerning any bribe or promise of reward in exchange for false testimony,” Coleman stated emphatically. “There is no one within the LNP with the authority to commit the government of Liberia to such illegal or unethical conduct.”
The allegations centered on claims that LNP officers offered or negotiated a financial deal with Nyanti, with rumored figures ranging from US$2,000 to a staggering US$200,000. Some reports even suggested Nyanti had demanded the money himself to testify or remain silent.
IG Coleman forcefully refuted these claims, asserting that no such negotiations ever took place. He maintained that the rumors were based on misinformation designed to undermine the integrity of the police force and the credibility of the judicial process.
“Whether it’s $2,000, $50,000, or $200,000, the fact remains that there was never any promise, payment, or intent to engage in bribery,” Coleman reiterated. “The police received a request, which we did not and could not honor. There was no money offered, and none was given.”
According to the Inspector General, Nyanti was a critical person of interest who had been on the run during the early stages of the investigation. His return to Liberia was not due to any covert deal or financial incentive, but was facilitated by a family member who assured the LNP of Nyanti’s willingness to cooperate.
“Nyanti did not turn himself in out of goodwill,” Coleman explained. “He was already facing charges before returning. We allowed an opportunity for dialogue based on a family plea, but it soon became apparent that he could not be trusted. His attitude during interrogation revealed inconsistencies, and we had no confidence in his cooperation.”
Upon his return, Nyanti was taken into custody, interviewed, and formally charged. IG Coleman emphasized that the police followed all legal procedures, with Nyanti appearing with his legal counsel and providing a written and videotaped sworn statement before being turned over to the court system.
“Everything was done by the book. His lawyer was present and the statement was properly recorded. When this matter proceeds to trial, all the evidence will be presented accordingly,” Coleman affirmed.
The police chief underscored the LNP’s zero-tolerance policy for attempts to obstruct justice, tamper with evidence, or unlawfully influence witnesses. He assured the public that the case is now under court jurisdiction and the police will continue to provide all necessary support to ensure justice is served.
“We are a professional institution guided by the law. No suspect or witness will be forced, bribed, or coerced into giving a statement,” he stated, warning against the spread of misinformation that could derail the justice process. He also appealed to media institutions to verify sources and uphold ethical journalism standards.
In a significant development, IG Coleman announced that the LNP is intensifying efforts to track down other individuals of interest by escalating Interpol diffusion notices to Red Notices, which will significantly enhance international cooperation in their arrest and extradition.
“This case extends beyond our borders. We are working with Interpol to ensure that those involved, wherever they may be hiding, are apprehended and brought to justice,” Coleman disclosed. “Once feedback is received, Red Notices will be officially published and shared with global partners.”
The police boss added that the LNP remains in close collaboration with international law enforcement agencies to apprehend those responsible for orchestrating or participating in the arson attack, which “shocked the nation and threatened the stability of the country’s democratic institutions.”
Meanwhile, the LNP confirmed that John Nyanti, accused of a pivotal role in the arson attack, has been successfully arrested after weeks of evasion and has made his first court appearance. His arrest marks a crucial step forward in what is widely described as one of the most serious threats to national security in recent memory. Nyanti faces multiple charges, including arson, conspiracy, destruction of public property, and attempted obstruction of justice.
“This is a serious case. Burning the Capitol is not only a criminal offense it is an attack on democracy itself,” said Coleman. “The public deserves to see justice served, and we are committed to ensuring that happens.”
Public response to these developments has been mixed. While some, including civil society organizations, have welcomed the police’s transparency, others remain skeptical, citing historical cases of political interference in high-profile investigations. There have also been suggestions that the bribery claims might have been planted to discredit the investigation or frustrate the legal process. With political tensions high, observers have urged authorities to remain apolitical and focused on upholding the law.
In closing, IG Gregory Coleman reaffirmed the LNP’s dedication to justice, professionalism, and accountability. “We are under no illusion that this job is easy, especially in a climate of suspicion and misinformation,” he said. “But we will not be distracted. Our job is to protect the peace and enforce the law, and we will do so without fear or favor.”
He called on all Liberians to support the ongoing investigation by refraining from spreading rumors, cooperating with law enforcement agencies, and trusting the judicial process. “Let us work together to ensure that justice is served not just for the sake of punishment, but for the protection of our democracy and the future of our country,” Coleman concluded.
As court proceedings continue and international arrest efforts intensify, the Liberian public and the world will be watching closely to see how this high-stakes case unfolds.
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