By Rufus Divine Brooks Jr., Contributor
Monrovia, Liberia –The Fula Progressive Union of Liberia (FPUL) has issued a strong condemnation of the Liberia National Police (LNP) over the alleged violent assault of a Muslim woman and her infant child in Monrovia.
The incident, which reportedly occurred on July 22, 2025, has triggered widespread outrage and prompted urgent calls for justice from human rights advocates and civil society organizations.
In a press release, the FPUL stated that Madam Zainab Bah, a resident of Newport Street, was allegedly assaulted by LNP officers in a disturbing case of police brutality.
According to the Union, officers beat Madam Bah, forcibly removed her niqab-a traditional Islamic face covering-and arrested her in full view of her infant child.
The most alarming detail, according to the FPUL, involves the treatment of the child.
“Shockingly,” the statement reads, “video footage shows officers violently taking the baby from Madam Bah and throwing the child to the ground.” The infant is reportedly in critical condition as a result.
Following her arrest, Madam Bah was detained overnight at the Gobachop Police Depot without access to medical attention or legal representation, despite being apprehended in Central Monrovia, the Union claims.
The FPUL condemned the incident as a gross violation of Madam Bah’s fundamental rights-including her freedom of religion, the rights of women and mothers, and the safety of her child.
The Union described the episode as part of a broader pattern of police brutality and disregard for human dignity and the rule of law in Liberia.
In response, the FPUL is demanding immediate action, including:
The suspension of all officers involved pending investigation
An independent, transparent investigation into the incident
Urgent medical care for both Madam Bah and her injured child
Public accountability and prosecution of those responsible
Comprehensive police reform, especially regarding the treatment of women, children, and religious minorities.
The organization called on the Ministry of Justice, the LNP Inspector General, and the Independent National Commission on Human Rights, the Inter-Religious Council, and civil society at large to intervene swiftly and decisively.
“This is about more than one incident,” the FPUL stated. “It’s about justice, accountability, and the soul of our nation.”
The Union closed its statement by expressing unwavering solidarity with Madam Zainab Bah and all victims of police violence and religious discrimination, adding a powerful warning: “Justice must be served. The world is watching.”
