Monrovia – The Liberia National Police (LNP) has announced a string of corrective measures following its controversial handling of the April 14, 2026 protest, including an investigation into alleged excessive use of force and the withdrawal of charges against all arrested individuals.
By J.H. Webster clayeh, [email protected]
In a press release issued April 16, the LNP said the actions were ordered by the Inspector General of Police to reinforce accountability, transparency, and respect for constitutional rights.
After-Action Review Ordered
The police disclosed that a comprehensive After-Action Review (AAR) has been commissioned to reconstruct the events surrounding the protest.
According to the LNP, the review will assess officer conduct, operational decisions, and public order management strategies. It will incorporate documentation, images, and other evidence, serving as an internal tool to strengthen future policing operations.
Findings from the review will undergo command-level scrutiny, with administrative sanctions expected where necessary.
Independent Probe into Use of Force
The Inspector General has also mandated a full-scale independent investigation into allegations of excessive force by officers.
The probe will examine reported incidents involving the use of force, review arrests, injuries, and property damage, and assess compliance with established policing standards. It will also analyze media and social media narratives, including misinformation and disinformation linked to the protest.
The LNP emphasized that officers under investigation will be afforded due process under Liberian law and police regulations. An initial briefing is expected within 24 hours, followed by a detailed report.
Authorities warned that any officer found in violation of the law or professional standards will be held fully accountable.
Charges Dropped Against Protesters
In a move the police described as aimed at de-escalation and national cohesion, the Inspector General has ordered the immediate withdrawal of all criminal charges against those arrested during the protest.
The decision follows a preliminary review of the circumstances surrounding the arrests. However, the LNP noted that the withdrawal does not preclude future prosecution if credible evidence of serious criminal conduct emerges.
Call for Calm
Reaffirming its commitment to the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, the LNP said it remains focused on maintaining public order through proportionality and restraint.
The police acknowledged growing public concern over its conduct and assured citizens that its actions are guided by principles of justice, impartiality, and accountability.
It urged citizens, civil society groups, and the media to remain calm, law-abiding, and avoid spreading unverified or inflammatory information, while calling for cooperation with ongoing review and investigative processes.
The statement concluded with a pledge by the LNP to improve its operations, uphold transparency, and better serve the Liberian public.
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