Monrovia, Liberia – The Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) has officially presented its findings on the Kinjor Shooting Incident to Liberia’s Justice Minister and Attorney General, Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh.
The report, which examines the February 2024 incident that resulted in three fatalities and several injuries in Grand Cape Mount County, was submitted on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. A statement from the Ministry of Justice, signed by Jutonu Y. Kollie, Sr., Director of Press and Public Affairs, confirmed the submission on Wednesday, January 15, 2025.
Cllr. D. Sylvester Rennie, the CCRB Chairman and outgoing President of the Liberia National Bar Association, summarized the findings during the presentation. He noted that the investigation involved site visits, interviews with law enforcement officers, affected residents, victims’ families, and key stakeholders. The report, which remains under wraps for now, includes a series of recommendations aimed at addressing the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
Cllr. Rennie also used the occasion to advocate for greater support for the CCRB. He urged Justice Minister Tweh to prioritize the inclusion of the Board in the National Budget to ensure adequate resources for future investigations. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Chairman and commended the Attorney General for his leadership.
In response, Justice Minister Tweh praised the CCRB’s dedication and meticulous approach to the investigation. He assured the Board that its findings and recommendations would be fully implemented to uphold the rule of law and ensure accountability. The Minister acknowledged the pressing need for budgetary allocations to strengthen the CCRB’s operations, emphasizing the Board’s crucial role in promoting justice and fostering public trust.
Minister Tweh also lauded Cllr. Rennie’s contributions to the Liberia National Bar Association, describing his tenure as marked by significant achievements. He expressed hope that future generations of lawyers would be inspired by Rennie’s legacy of service and integrity.
The Kinjor Shooting Incident remains a dark chapter in Liberia’s recent history. Between February 27 and 29, 2024, protests erupted in the Bea Mountain Mining Corporation (BMMC) area as residents of Grand Cape Mount County demanded the company fulfill its concession agreements. Protesters called for the removal of Country Manager Debbah Allen, improvements to employee healthcare and welfare, and the provision of electricity for local communities.
The demonstrations intensified into violent clashes between protesters and police, resulting in the deaths of three individuals and injuries to 14 police officers. One officer was reportedly struck by a single-barrel gunshot. The rioting also caused extensive damage to BMMC properties, including the destruction of heavy machinery such as excavators and compactors. The local police station and barracks were vandalized and set ablaze.
