By D. Abraham Cooper, Sr.
Zwedru, Grand Gedeh County — A Liberian man, Arthur B. Yalarti, has alleged that he was stabbed by a Chinese national employed with the Liberia Ever Prosperous Investment Company, following what he described as an unprovoked altercation at the company’s premises in Zwedru.
The alleged perpetrator has since been released by local authorities and reportedly left the country, prompting public concern and calls for accountability.
The victim, Arthur B. Yalarti, who claims to have played a key role in expanding LEPIC’s operations to the southeast, recounted the incident to Verity News in a detailed interview. Yalarti said the assault occurred earlier this month after he returned from Maryland County, where he had been conducting company-related duties.
“I arrived in Zwedru late and decided to spend the night at our company office,” Yalarti said. “When I stepped out to buy food and a few personal items, I was unexpectedly confronted by one of the Chinese workers. Before I could understand what was going on, it turned violent, and I ended up stabbed in my right arm.”
Yalarti claims there had been no prior dispute or misunderstanding between them. “We never had any argument before — nothing at all. That’s why this has come as such a shock to me,” he said. “I thank God for the community members who came to my rescue before the police arrived.”
Local police responded to the scene and reportedly took the Chinese national into custody. However, according to Yalarti and several community witnesses, the suspect was released shortly afterward under unclear circumstances.
“He was arrested, yes,” Yalarti confirmed. “But the next thing I heard was that he had been released and then left the country. Meanwhile, I’m still dealing with the injury and the trauma.”
Sources close to the investigation suggest that the suspect may have been released without formal charges being filed, raising questions about procedural lapses and the enforcement of justice when foreign nationals are involved.
Medical Support and Financial Settlement
Following the incident, Yalarti received some financial assistance for his medical treatment ~ reportedly from the company or its representatives. However, he insists that this does not substitute for legal accountability.
“What happened to me could happen to anyone. Money for treatment doesn’t mean justice. This man should answer for what he did under Liberian law,” he said.
Legal Authorities Step In
In response to growing public concern, the Labor Commissioner of Grand Gedeh County and the County Attorney’s office have reportedly stepped in to review the case. According to local sources, efforts are underway to re-establish the matter as an active legal case.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, a representative from the County Attorney’s office confirmed that the incident had reached their attention and that discussions were ongoing about how to proceed given the suspect’s departure from the country.
“There is no justification for an alleged assault of this nature to go uninvestigated simply because the individual involved has left Liberia,” the official said. “We’re looking into options for re-opening the case and pursuing justice in accordance with the law.”
Company Silent Amid Scrutiny
The Liberia Ever Prosperous Investment Company has yet to issue an official statement regarding the alleged attack, the status of its employee, or its role in assisting the investigation.
The company, which operates in the forestry and timber sector, has expanded its presence across several southeastern counties in recent years, with Chinese nationals frequently serving in senior and technical roles. However, incidents involving foreign workers have occasionally stirred friction with local communities, who often feel that justice is unevenly applied.
Community Reaction
The incident has ignited debate across Zwedru and neighboring areas, with community leaders and rights advocates urging law enforcement agencies to ensure justice is pursued regardless of the nationality of those involved.
“It sends the wrong message when a Liberian citizen is harmed and the accused just walks free — or flies free,” said one resident. “We want development, yes, but not at the cost of our dignity or safety.”
What Comes Next?
With the involvement of the County Attorney and the Labor Commissioner, hopes are rising that the matter may be formally revisited. However, legal experts note that the absence of the suspect from Liberia could complicate prosecution, unless diplomatic or international legal channels are pursued.
For Mr. Yalarti, the road ahead remains uncertain, but his resolve is clear.
“I just want the law to take its course. If we say we’re a country of laws, then let’s prove it ~ no matter who is involved,” he said.
