By Samuel Borlay
Voinjama City, Liberia – May 28, 2025 – Authorities in Voinjama City have made significant progress in a shooting investigation following a distressing incident that occurred in Kugbemai Town, resulting in the arrest of three suspects and the seizure of 29 single-barrel guns.
The incident unfolded in the early morning hours when 35-year-old Coneteh Selekie was reportedly shot while tending to his peanut farm. Selekie, who was also hunting for grass cutters at the time, recounted that he noticed someone nearby and, upon investigating, was suddenly met with gunfire. The attack left him with multiple wounds around his neck, prompting immediate medical attention.
In response to the incident, the Liberia National Police were alerted by local authorities in Kugbemai. ACP Tarnue N. Kerkula, Commander of the Lofa County Police Detachment, stated that upon receiving the report, he dispatched a team of officers to the scene to initiate an investigation and apprehend those responsible.
Following a thorough inquiry, police arrested three individuals believed to be connected to the shooting. The suspects, identified as Ansu Kroma (34), Selekie Trawallay (35), and Amadu Sheriff (33), were found in possession of firearms that were reportedly discharged during the incident. The police have confirmed that the seized weapons are currently secured in their custody as the investigation continues.
Commander Kerkula expressed concern over the recurring nature of such incidents, noting that this marks the second time in two months that a hunter has shot another hunter in the region. He highlighted a previous case in which a hunter named Kpehe was alleged to have shot and killed his friend, leading to the confiscation of seven additional single-barrel guns in the nearby Gbortemai area.
The firearms, both from the recent incident and previous cases, are set to be handed over to the Commission on Small Arms for further evaluation. This action aims to assess the registration status of the firearms and implement measures to prevent future occurrences of gun-related violence in the community.
Meanwhile, Coneteh Selekie is receiving medical treatment at Telewoyan Memorial Hospital in Voinjama, where he is expected to recover from his injuries.
As the investigation unfolds, local authorities and law enforcement officials are urging the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help mitigate the prevalence of gun violence in the region.
