Former Speaker Koffa and 14 Others Charged in Capitol Fire Case

Monrovia, Liberia: The grand jury in Montserrado County has officially charged former Speaker J. Fonati Koffa and 14 other people for their alleged roles in the fire incident at the Capitol Building.

The charges have been sent to Criminal Court “A,” where Judge Roosevelt Z. Willie will handle the case.

Who Has Been Charged?

The people named in the case include

• Kivi Bah (also called “Kaba”)

• Jerry Pokah (also called “Tyrese”)

• Stephen M. Broh

• John Nyanti

• Hon. Dixon W. Seboe

• J. Fonati Koffa

• Patience Bestman

• Harrilyn Grace Johnson

• Abu B. Kamara

• Jacob C. Deebie

• Christian Kofa

• Amos Kofa

• Eric Susay

• Thomas Isaac Etheridge

• And other people who are still not named yet

What Are They Being Accused Of?

The group is facing several serious criminal charges, including

• Trying to kill someone

• Destroying property on purpose

• Planning a crime together

• Helping others commit crimes

• Encouraging criminal acts

• Using harmful or dangerous materials

• Setting fire that could harm others

• Putting people’s lives in danger

They are also accused of arson (setting fire to a building), which is considered a second-degree felony, and some first-degree misdemeanors (serious lesser crimes).

What’s Next?

Our court reporter says this indictment means the group will now face trial in August at Criminal Court “A.”

Last week, the city court gave the accused people bail (a legal way to stay out of jail while waiting for trial). After that, the court clerk was told to send the case files to Judge Willie so the trial process can begin.