24 Hours After LNP Announced, “No Arrests Made in Capitol Building Arson Fire Case”

In a recent press briefing, Inspector General of the Liberia National Police (LNP), Gregory O. W. Coleman, provided an update on the investigation surrounding the Capitol building fire that occurred earlier this month. Coleman confirmed that the LNP has gathered substantial evidence linking individuals to the fire, and arrests are expected in the near future.

The fire, which ignited within the Capitol Building in the heart of Liberia’s political center, has drawn widespread attention and concern. Coleman assured the public that while not every detail of the investigation has been uncovered, the LNP possesses enough evidence to identify and apprehend those responsible.

“We want to make it clear to the public that we are not proceeding with speculation,” Coleman stated. “We have sufficient evidence to make arrests. Our investigation has already confirmed that this fire was intentionally set, and we have identified persons of interest.”

Coleman, however, refrained from naming the individuals under suspicion, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. “The rule of law will prevail in Liberia,” he emphasized. “Those responsible will be held accountable.”

Fire Confirmed as Arson, Not Electrical Fault

The investigation into the fire has ruled out any accidental or natural causes, such as electrical malfunctions. According to the Inspector General, preliminary findings indicate that the fire spread intentionally from one part of the building to another, further corroborating suspicions of arson.

“We have ruled out the possibility of an electrical fault or other natural causes,” Coleman explained. “The evidence indicates that this was a deliberate act, and we are treating it as such.”

Arson is a criminal offense involving the deliberate setting of fire to property, and in this case, the Capitol building — a symbol of Liberia’s government and political stability — was targeted. The fire destroyed significant portions of the building, raising concerns about the security of government institutions.

Former Assistant Minister of Agriculture, Alvin Wesseh, Denies Arrest

Amid the heightened tension surrounding the investigation, former Assistant Minister of Agriculture, Alvin Wesseh, has publicly denied claims that he was arrested in connection to the fire. On January 10, 2024, reports surfaced alleging that Wesseh had been detained by the LNP. However, in a phone interview with Spoon Network, Wesseh clarified that while police officers had surrounded his residence, he had not been taken into custody.

Wesseh, a member of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), claimed that he had received intelligence suggesting that he and others associated with the CDC were accused of planning to disrupt President Joseph Nyumah Boakai’s upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA).

“There are security officers who came to my house to arrest me, according to information. Based on security intelligence, they claimed Alvin Wesseh and others are planning to mobilize and disrupt the SONA of His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai,” Wesseh told Spoon Network. “I saw groups of security agents, particularly from the LNP.”

Despite Wesseh’s claims of being under surveillance, there has been no official confirmation from the LNP regarding any direct plans to arrest him. Nonetheless, the situation remains fluid, with sources indicating that the authorities may soon take action.

Arrests Expected Within 24 Hours — But No Arrests Have Yet Been Made

The LNP had previously indicated that several arrests could be made within 24 hours following Coleman’s press briefing. However, as of the latest reports, no arrests have been made. This delay has led to increased speculation about the ongoing investigation’s progress and whether the LNP will be able to follow through on its promises.

While Coleman remains confident in the strength of the case, some observers have raised questions about the timeline of the investigation. Regardless, the LNP has pledged to continue its efforts to apprehend those responsible for the Capitol building fire.

“We are committed to ensuring that justice is served, and we will leave no stone unturned in this investigation,” Coleman stated. “We urge all individuals who may be involved to come forward voluntarily. If not, we will take the necessary steps to ensure their arrest.”

As the investigation into the Capitol building fire intensifies, the Liberian public is watching closely for further developments. The LNP has indicated that arrests are imminent, but for now, it remains to be seen whether authorities will follow through on their commitments. Meanwhile, former government officials like Alvin Wesseh find themselves caught in the web of suspicion, with security forces continuing to monitor their movements.

With the investigation still unfolding, questions about political motivations and the potential involvement of high-profile individuals linger. The next few days will be critical in determining the course of this high-stakes investigation, and whether the LNP can bring those responsible to justice.