The Women’s NGO Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) is demanding justice following the alleged brutal and tragic murder of a Canadian-based Liberian woman in Marshall City, Margibi County.
The incident, which has sparked national outrage, prompted WONGOSOL to call for an immediate and transparent investigation by the Liberia National Police (LNP).
According to a statement issued by the organization, the victim, identified only as Ciannah, was a Liberian woman residing in Canada who had returned to Liberia to open a home in Marshall.
Within 24 hours of her arrival, credible reports suggest she was allegedly raped, dismembered, set on fire, and hastily buried—an act that has horrified many across the country.
The crime has gone viral on social media, particularly through a disturbing video widely circulated on Facebook.
Despite the public attention, authorities have yet to issue an official statement or confirm whether an investigation has been opened, raising serious concerns about transparency and accountability.
In its press statement released Tuesday, WONGOSOL described the incident as “a horrific and barbaric act of violence” and posed several critical questions to law enforcement authorities.
“Why was the victim buried the very next day, June 23, without a full forensic examination or autopsy being conducted?” the organization asked. “What steps, if any, have been taken to secure the crime scene and collect physical evidence, such as fingerprints?”
The women-led organization condemned what it described as a pattern of law enforcement inaction, warning that such lapses embolden perpetrators of gender-based violence and erode public confidence in the justice system.
“This tragic incident is a stark reminder of the urgent need to strengthen Liberia’s security sector, especially when it comes to protecting women and ensuring justice for victims of violence,” the statement emphasized.
WONGOSOL also expressed concern about the broader implications of the incident on diaspora Liberians and international investors, noting that a woman returning to invest in her country should not fall victim to such brutality.
“If a woman cannot feel safe in her own home, then we as a nation must reassess our priorities,” the statement declared.
The organization is calling on the Government of Liberia to take swift and decisive action, starting with a transparent and thorough investigation into Ciannah’s death. WONGOSOL also urged broader reforms to improve crime scene management, forensic capacity, and the protection of victims and witnesses.
WONGOSOL’s intervention marks the first major public demand for justice in the case, which has so far received no formal response from the police or government officials.
“As the nation reels from this tragedy,” the organization concluded, “Justice for Ciannah is justice for all Liberian women.”
About WONGOSOL:
Established in 1998, the Women’s NGO Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) is a national umbrella organization coordinating the efforts of more than 250 women-led groups across Liberia.
It is widely recognized for its advocacy on gender equality, women’s empowerment, and the protection of women and girls from all forms of violence.
