Local and international civil society organizations have started raising serious concern over the suspicious deaths of AFL Sergeant Bobby Manneh and EPS Agent Melvin under the Boakai-led administration.
Joining the fight is Liberia’s civil society movement, Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND), that has sound call for a comprehensive investigation into the deaths of AFL Sergeant Bobby Manneh and EPS Agent Melvin Earley, urging the government to treat these cases as homicides rather than suicides.
In a recent statement, STAND expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of Sergeant Manneh and extended condolences to his family. The incident, which occurred on May 30, 2024, at the Edward Binyah Kesselly Barracks, was reported by the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) as a suicide.
According to the AFL’s Public Affairs office, Manneh allegedly took his own life while on guard duty, firing several bullets into his head.
However, this conclusion has raised numerous questions and concerns.
STAND highlighted several critical points that demand further scrutiny to include forensic investigation on whether the AFL high command rely on a forensic investigation by its own military police unit before concluding that Manneh’s death was a suicide. As a professional institution, the AFL is expected to conduct a thorough preliminary investigation.
Stand pointed out the role of Liberia National Police, noting as to whether the AFL statement mentioned the involvement of the LNP’s homicide division. The advocating group wonders whther LNP the lead investigator, or are they merely assisting, highlighting clarification on the division of responsibilities as essential component.
The movement, Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND) is concerned about the weapon used , questioning on how Manneh had assigned a weapon during his duty and the type of weapon, and were there any eyewitnesses? These details are crucial for the investigation.
Stand is worried about the undisclosed number of gunshots injuries did Manneh sustain, and the pattern of the projectiles on his body. According to the organization, multiple gunshot wounds to the head suggest homicide rather than suicide.
In their statement , the pro-advocacy group said the AFL described Manneh as having an impeccable military record with no signs of suicidal tendencies, pondering whether there has been any history of self-harm or suicidal behavior?
STAND also pointed out the striking similarities between Manneh’s death and that of EPS Agent Melvin Earley in 2021. Earley was reported to have died from three self-inflicted gunshot wounds to the head, a narrative that was widely questioned by the public and his family.
In both cases, the reported circumstances have been met with skepticism, creating an atmosphere of disbelief and suspicion.
The organization called on President Joseph N. Boakai to prioritize a credible and transparent investigation into Manneh’s death.
This is essential to restore public confidence in the justice system and ensure accountability within the security apparatus.
STAND further urged the reopening of the Melvin Earley case file, advocating for a thorough, transparent, and unbiased investigation. The similarities between the two deaths suggest a possible dangerous subculture within the Liberian security forces that must be addressed.
Research conducted by STAND indicates that experts typically view multiple gunshot wounds to the head with suspicion, often indicative of homicide. Law enforcement and forensic specialists argue that such cases warrant a detailed investigation to rule out foul play.
Given these circumstances, STAND believes that the deaths of Sergeant Bobby Manneh and Agent Melvin Earley should be reclassified and investigated as homicides.
STAND’s firm demand for action underscores the urgent need for justice and accountability, demanding that the Boakai administration take definitive steps to address these alarming incidents.
