Verity News followed a heart-wrenching discovery, where the body of a 25-year-old mother, identified as Mamai, was found along the banks of the Kaha River in Sovasu Town, Kolahun District, Lofa County.
The young woman had been missing since Thursday, August 15, 2024, and was discovered by her family on the morning of Saturday, August 16, 2024.
Mamai, a mother of three, had reportedly been struggling with her mental and physical health since giving birth just three months ago.
Family members described her state of mind as fragile and not entirely normal in the days leading up to her disappearance. Her distressing condition seemed to have culminated in this tragic event.
The scene by the river told a sorrowful story—only a single slipper was found near the water, hinting at Mamai’s final moments by the river. Her family members, who had been frantically searching for her since her disappearance, were devastated by the discovery. The incident has left the close-knit community of Sovasu Town in shock and mourning.
A jury of 15 men, led by T. Fofee Konneh, was swiftly assembled to investigate the circumstances surrounding Mamai’s death. After thorough deliberation, the jury concluded that there was no evidence of foul play. The cause of death was determined to be accidental, likely due to drowning in the river.
The Liberia National Police Department in Kolahun also played a critical role in the investigation. While they assisted in the inquiry, they eventually turned Mamai’s body over to her grieving family, who are now preparing for her burial rites. However, the police have not closed the case entirely, as they continue to look into the exact circumstances that led to this tragedy.
As the family grapples with the sudden loss of Mamai, they are left with the immense responsibility of caring for her three-month-old baby. The family has made a public appeal to the government and non-governmental organizations, seeking assistance in providing for the child. The tragic loss of a mother at such a young age underscores the profound impact on her children, who now face an uncertain future.
Kolahun District Commissioner, Joseph K. Yarkoi, expressed deep condolences to Mamai’s family and assured them of the district’s commitment to providing support during this difficult time. He also emphasized the ongoing efforts to fully understand the events that led to Mamai’s untimely death.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by individuals dealing with mental and physical health challenges. It highlights the urgent need for increased community awareness and the establishment of robust support systems to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The loss of Mamai has not only shaken her family but also sent ripples through the entire community, calling attention to the importance of mental health care and the dire consequences of its neglect.
As the community mourns the loss of a young mother, they are also left with the sobering realization that more needs to be done to protect the most vulnerable among them. Mamai’s death is a painful chapter in the lives of those she left behind, and it is a call to action for greater vigilance and compassion in the face of mental health struggles.
By: Samuel Borlay, Correspondent
