By Gareyson Y. Neufville
A 33-year-old man previously reported missing in Warteken Township, Karluway District, Maryland County, has been found alive following intervention by local security authorities, heightening fear and anxiety among residents who say mysterious disappearances are becoming increasingly common in the area.
The man, Kingba Musu, a resident of Warteken Town, was reported missing on January 9, 2026. Police authorities say preliminary investigations suggest that his disappearance was allegedly facilitated by his own mother, Madam Martha Musu, who reportedly confessed to handing him over to a woman identified as Vero of Karloken through what investigators described as a suspected witchcraft-related network.
On Monday, January 12, 2026, at about 8:30 a.m., the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS) Commander for the area, Mr. John Blamo, accompanied by the Karluway District Police Commander, Inspector Samuel T. Brown Jr., visited Warteken Town to question local leaders about the delayed reporting of the incident.
Their presence reportedly attracted large crowds of residents, many of whom expressed fear for their safety.
Shortly after the arrival of security officials, General Town Chief Isaac Sieh informed them that Mr. Musu had been located alive.
Upon meeting him, officers observed visible bruises on his face and a reddened left eye, raising concerns that he may have been physically abused during the period of his disappearance. Authorities immediately advised that he seek medical treatment as investigations continue.
Residents of Warteken and surrounding communities say the incident has intensified fear and suspicion, particularly among families who worry that anyone could become the next victim.
Several residents, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said they have become increasingly cautious about allowing children and relatives to move freely, especially at night.
“We are living in fear,” one elderly resident said. “This is not the first disappearance. When a mother is accused of handing over her own son, it makes everyone question who can be trusted.”
Another resident described sleepless nights and growing mistrust within the community, noting that people are now wary of one another and closely monitoring unusual movements.
The case adds to a troubling pattern of missing persons reports in Karluway and nearby districts.
On March 13, 2024, a 50-year-old man reportedly disappeared in the district and has not been seen since.
In July 2024, Anthony W. Toe, 45, also went missing under unclear circumstances and remains unaccounted for.
More recently, on January 5, 2026, a motorcyclist, Obediah Nyakpor, disappeared in Barrobo, Maryland County District #3, and is still missing.
Community leaders say the repeated incidents have created a climate of fear and are calling on the government to strengthen security in the area and conduct thorough investigations.
Some residents are also urging traditional leaders and elders to collaborate with law enforcement to discourage harmful beliefs and practices that may be contributing to the incidents.
Police authorities have confirmed that investigations into Mr. Musu’s disappearance, the alleged abuse, and the wider pattern of missing persons are ongoing.
They have assured the public that anyone found responsible will be held accountable under the law and have urged residents to remain calm and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
As investigations continue, residents of Warteken and neighboring communities say they hope justice will be served and that stronger preventive measures will be put in place to prevent further disappearances.
