A thorough investigation by Verity News has uncovered alleged attempts by CEMENCO to conceal information about an employee who died under unclear circumstances while working in the company’s compound. Zoega Cooper was assigned to electrical duties and was on shift the night he passed away.
The Liberia Cement Corporation (CEMENCO), the country’s largest cement producer, is facing an investigation over the death of Zoegar Cooper, an employee who reportedly died on the job in February under unclear circumstances. Allegations have surfaced that the company is attempting to suppress the case, including offering a bribe to the deceased’s family to prevent them from speaking out.
According to a source familiar with the situation, Cooper was employed by Wright Contractor Service, a subcontractor providing labor at CEMENCO’s plant. He was assigned to electrical duties and was on shift the night he passed away. “We came to work one morning, I think February 8 or so, and heard that Zoegar had died while on duty,” the source disclosed.
Cooper reportedly finished his shift at 11 p.m., but due to the lack of company-provided transportation for contractors at that hour, he remained on the premises until morning. “Because of security reasons, he had to stay on the job until daybreak before heading home,” the source added. “It was during that period that he lost his life.”
While company officials have suggested Cooper had underlying health conditions, no medical report confirming this claim has been provided. The Liberia National Police (LNP) launched an investigation and requested CCTV footage from CEMENCO to determine what happened. However, crucial footage from the night of his death was allegedly deleted, raising suspicions about a possible cover-up.
The deceased’s family has accused both CEMENCO and its subcontractor of neglecting their responsibility. A family member revealed that police had initially advised them to delay the burial until after an investigation, but without CCTV evidence, the case stalled. Meanwhile, Cooper’s employer allegedly withheld two months of his salary, offering only partial payment to his grieving family.
A daughter of the deceased, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, expressed frustration and fear. “CEMENCO says they have nothing to do with him, but for all I knew, he was working for them. I met the company doctor, and they told me they found him sitting in a chair, thinking he was sleeping. When they returned, he was in the same position, lifeless,” she recounted. She also indicated that she could not speak further due to concerns for her safety.
Despite growing concerns, CEMENCO has remained silent, fueling speculation that the company is trying to evade accountability.
