Monrovia – The Liberia National Police (LNP) have arrested STAND Chairman Mulbah Morlu and placed him under investigation following a standoff over a firearm displayed during Friday’s anti-drug protest in Monrovia.
Police had earlier declared Morlu wanted for allegedly possessing a firearm and reportedly surrounded his residence early Saturday morning in an effort to apprehend him. Following his arrest, Morlu briefly appeared before the Paynesville Magisterial Court before being taken to LNP headquarters for questioning.
Authorities have not yet disclosed whether formal charges have been filed against him.
The development comes just hours after Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman, through a statement issued by the LNP on Friday, declared Morlu “armed and dangerous” and ordered him to immediately surrender a firearm that authorities claim was taken from a police officer during the July 17 protest.
Morlu, who chairs the Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND), was the lead organizer of the demonstration, which called on the government to intensify efforts against drug trafficking and abuse and to fully investigate the recent US$19 million cocaine seizure.
During the protest, Morlu publicly displayed a firearm, claiming it had been recovered from an alleged intruder. The incident triggered an immediate response from law enforcement authorities.
In its statement, the LNP said it had received “credible intelligence” indicating that the weapon seized during the protest was intended for unlawful purposes. Police further alleged that Morlu was in unlawful possession of the firearm and cautioned both law enforcement officers and members of the public.
“The Liberia National Police hereby declares Mr. Mulbah Morlu armed and dangerous and urges the public to exercise extreme caution,” the statement said.
The LNP instructed officers not to engage Morlu alone and directed that any action involving him be coordinated through established command structures. The police also issued what they described as a “final warning,” demanding that Morlu immediately turn over the firearm to the nearest police station or other recognized law enforcement authority.
“Failure to do so will result in every lawful measure being taken to recover the weapon and bring all responsible persons before the courts,” the statement added.
The arrest marks the latest development in the aftermath of Friday’s protest and sets the stage for a potentially contentious legal battle over the circumstances surrounding the firearm and Morlu’s actions during the demonstration.
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