The First Judicial Circuit, Criminal Court “A”, for Montserrado County at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia is set to open trial proceedings in a major criminal case involving multiple defendants accused of orchestrating a violent attack on the Capitol Building.
The trial is scheduled to begin on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia.
Presiding over the case will be His Honour Roosevelt Z. Willje, Resident Circuit Judge. The prosecution is being led by the Republic of Liberia through the Ministry of Justice, while several defense attorneys are expected to represent the accused.
Among those charged are J. Formti Kola, Dixon W. Seboe, Jacob C. Debbie, and others, including individuals known by aliases such as “Kaba” and “Tyrese.” Additional suspects are anticipated to be identified as the trial unfolds.
The defendants face a range of serious charges, including Arson, Criminal Attempt to Commit Murder, Criminal Mischief, and Criminal Conspiracy. Additional charges include Reckless Burning or Exploding, Criminal Facilitation, and Criminal Solicitation.
Significantly, the indictment includes the rare and severe charge of “Release of Destructive Forces,” a crime under Liberian law that refers to acts capable of causing widespread harm or endangering public safety.
The court’s Notice of Assignment was issued on August 22, 2025, by Assistant Clerk of Court Var C. Dawah. It mandates the appearance of all parties and their legal representatives at the commencement of trial.
The Acting Sheriff for Montserrado County, or his deputy, has been ordered to serve the notice on all concerned parties and return proof of service, as required by court procedure.
This case has captured public attention due to the number of defendants involved, the gravity of the alleged offenses, and the symbolic significance of the Capitol Building as the seat of national governance.
As the trial date approaches, heightened security is expected in and around the Temple of Justice. Legal observers predict a high-profile and closely monitored judicial process.
The proceedings reflect the Liberian judiciary’s ongoing effort to address serious crimes and reaffirm the rule of law, regardless of the case’s complexity or public sensitivity.
