Identifies Suspects.
Monrovia, Liberia – The Liberia National Police (LNP) and the Liberia Fire Service have revealed progress in their investigation into the recent Capitol Building fire, establishing that it was an act of arson. Inspector General Gregory Coleman said at a press conference held at the LNP headquarters on Wednesday, January 8, that convincing evidence ties the fire to deliberate criminal activity.
According to the Inspector General, a thorough inspection of the Capitol’s electrical system discovered no defects that may have caused the fire.
“Up to the time of the incident, the grid was still supplying electricity, which shows that it was not the cause,” according to Coleman.
He stated that investigators discovered evidence indicating that the fire began in many locations, which is a sign of purposeful fire. Inspector Coleman also stated that detectives uncovered a container at the site containing an explosive substance, which supported their argument.
This discovery, together with additional physical evidence, has prompted the LNP and LNFS to describe the event as a deliberate act intended to sabotage a crucial government institution. At the same time, the LNP Inspector General said that the agency had identified many people of interest in the matter.
Coleman stated that these individuals have been invited for interrogation, though their identities have not yet been revealed. He further stated that on the day of the fire, multiple arrests were made.
He however mentioned that some people were freed on their own recognizance, while others were signed for by their legal representatives. IG Coleman told the public that anyone clearly tied to the act will face justice within the next 24 hours moving forward.
Liberia Fire Service Director General Col. G. Warsuweh Barvoul validated the results, stating that explosives were used to start the fire.
“We are almost at the point of conclusion, and from observation, there was a fluid substance used to cause the fire at the Capitol.”
Meanwhile, Inspector General Coleman has urged the public to support the investigation and avoid politicizing the situation. Coleman emphasizes that while investigators continue to engage with overseas specialists to check evidence, the area of the fire remains under heavy protection to maintain its integrity.
