A resident of Forquelleh Town in Panta District, Bong County, has reportedly sustained injuries after an alleged altercation with personnel of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) assigned in the area.
The victim, identified as Reuben Naimah, is currently receiving medical treatment at the Forquelleh Clinic following the incident.
According to information gathered, the incident stems from an alleged dispute that occurred during the July 26 Independence Day celebrations at a local entertainment center known as Place to Be.
Reports indicate that Reuben allegedly confronted another individual, who subsequently filed a complaint with the LDEA due to the absence of police officers in the town.
Following the complaint, Reuben was arrested by LDEA officers. Preliminary findings from the agency reportedly found him liable for the alleged disturbance.
However, the situation escalated when officers attempted to detain him in a holding cell while he was handcuffed. Reuben reportedly resisted, insisting that he would not enter the cell while still wearing handcuffs.
The disagreement quickly turned into a physical confrontation involving three LDEA officers.
Witnesses allege that Reuben was severely beaten during the struggle and lost consciousness before he was taken for medical treatment.
The confrontation also left Emmanuel Coker, Deputy Commander of the LDEA in Forquelleh, and another LDEA officer, Abraham Zota, with reported injuries.
The LDEA Bong County Detachment says it is aware of the incident and has promised to issue an official response in the coming hours as the circumstances surrounding the confrontation continue to be investigated.
