Liberia: Concerned Citizens Demand Justice for Alleged Torture Victim Momo David

Monrovia – A group of concerned citizens are calling on the Liberia National Police (LNP) and the judiciary to ensure that Chinese national Michael Shio and his security guards—Emmanuel Nyumah, Andrew Barmoh, and Sunday Sumo—face justice for allegedly torturing Momo David in an incident that has sparked public outrage.

The accused were arrested on February 9, 2025, following allegations that they assaulted David on January 13 in Congo Town. According to police investigations, the security guards, who work for Pilot Security Guard Service, apprehended David on accusations of attempting to steal a solar panel from Shio’s residence. Reports indicate that he was forcibly restrained in a bathroom and subjected to inhumane treatment.

However, controversy erupted after reports emerged that Shio was released from the Monrovia Central Prison just minutes after being remanded, allegedly on the order of Associate Justice Yamie Q. Gbeisay. The Chinese national faces multiple charges, including Criminal Attempt to Commit Murder, Aggravated Assault, and Felonious Restraint—charges that initially led to his detention.

Public Outrage Over Alleged Torture and Impunity

At a press conference on Tuesday, February 18, in Monrovia, Alpha G. Gray, spokesperson for the concerned citizens, condemned the brutal assault on David and demanded immediate action from the police and judiciary.

“On that fateful morning, Momo David was not merely a victim; he was a human being who found himself hunted by individuals who, instead of protecting him, chose to inflict unspeakable pain,” Gray stated.

He expressed deep concern over what he described as the alarming silence of Police Inspector-General Gregory Coleman and the judicial system, warning that inaction on the matter would set a dangerous precedent.

The group further lamented that the crime occurred within Shio’s residence—an environment meant to ensure security—yet it became a scene of horror for a Liberian citizen.

“We implore the government to prioritize this issue and ensure that justice is served for Momo David and his family,” Gray asserted. “The details of this attack are too grievous to ignore. It is important that we, as a united front, demand accountability and justice.”

Allegations of Torture and a Missing Suspect

According to Gray, David was allegedly chased down, restrained, and tortured with hot oil—an act he described as barbaric, demonstrating a disturbing level of impunity among the perpetrators. He also raised concerns over Shio’s whereabouts, claiming that his sudden release and subsequent disappearance suggest possible obstruction of justice.

“The mistreatment of a Liberian citizen is a clear violation of human rights. This should serve as a wake-up call to both national leaders and the Liberian people,” Gray emphasized.

He called on Inspector-General Coleman to break his silence, arguing that the absence of police leadership in addressing the issue is unacceptable.

A Test for President Boakai’s Administration

Gray described the situation as a critical test for President Joseph Boakai’s administration, stating that the government must act decisively to restore public confidence in the justice system.

“If this is true, we will send a message to the world that Liberia is a vulnerable state—a place where foreign nationals can inflict violence on our citizens without fear of punishment,” he warned.

He stressed that failure to take swift action would embolden criminals and increase insecurity in the country, drawing parallels to past violent incidents that have gone unpunished.

“No one should feel that they can commit violence without repercussions, regardless of their nationality, status, or connections to high-profile officials,” he emphasized.

Call for Nationwide Solidarity

Gray urged Liberians to unite in demanding justice for David, arguing that this case is not just about one individual but about the broader fight against impunity and injustice.

“This case must become a rallying point, a moment of awakening for all Liberians,” he declared. “If we do not hold this administration accountable, we risk alienating our citizens and creating an environment ripe for further injustices and chaos.”

He further called on the government, civil society, and the international community to monitor the case closely to ensure transparency and fairness in legal proceedings.

As pressure mounts, the public awaits a response from the Liberia National Police and the judiciary on whether Michael Shio and his alleged accomplices will be brought to justice.