Monrovia – The Liberia National Police has restored calm to the Red Light–Parker Paint Community in Paynesville following a violent eviction clash on Thursday morning that left several people arrested, including the Imam of the Red Light Central Mosque.
By Willie N. Tokpah
The confrontation erupted when a team from the Civil Law Court “B,” backed by armed police officers, moved in to enforce a court-ordered eviction against occupants reportedly linked to a man identified as Keita, who claims ownership of the disputed property comprising several stores and a mosque.
According to eyewitnesses, the situation turned chaotic when the occupants resisted the enforcement, throwing stones and petrol bombs at the court sheriff and police officers. Some were seen brandishing cutlasses from rooftops in an attempt to fend off the security forces.
In the heat of the clash, one of the petrol bombs was reportedly hurled toward the EcoBank branch in Red Light, sparking panic among customers and residents.
However, quick intervention by the bank’s security personnel, aided by the Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS), prevented the fire from spreading and averted what could have been a major disaster.
The violence prompted police reinforcements, who arrived on the scene and used tear gas to disperse the crowd.
In the ensuing chaos, several individuals were subdued and taken into custody.
Police authorities later confirmed that eight people, including the Imam of the Red Light Central Mosque, were arrested for allegedly leading and participating in the resistance against the court’s mandate.
During the incident, at least one store caught fire, but the Liberia National Fire Service swiftly extinguished the flames before they could spread to adjoining structures.
The Liberia National Police has since maintained a strong presence in the area to prevent further disturbances as investigations continue into the cause of the violence and the disputed ownership of the property.
Meanwhile, community leaders and religious figures have called for calm and respect for the rule of law, urging all parties to seek peaceful and legal means in resolving property disputes.
Support Independent Journalism
Your support helps FrontPage Africa continue delivering independent, credible, and impactful journalism. Every contribution strengthens our ability to investigate, inform, and hold power accountable while keeping quality journalism accessible to our readers.
Support our journalism or subscribe to receive the latest FrontPage Africa stories and updates.
