Omega Murder Suspect Arrested in Sierra Leone; Extradition Process Underway to Face Justice in Liberia
MONROVIA, Liberia – Montserrado County District #3 Representative Sumo Mulbah has announced the arrest of Augustine T. Lender, the man accused of killing his girlfriend, Dearest Paye, in the Omega Coal Field Community, describing the development as a major breakthrough in the pursuit of justice. The lawmaker said the suspect was apprehended in neighboring Sierra Leone and that efforts are now underway to return him to Liberia to stand trial.
In an official statement addressed to residents of Omega Coal Field, Representative Mulbah said the arrest was made through a coordinated cross-border operation involving Liberian and Sierra Leonean security authorities. He thanked all institutions and individuals who played a role in locating and arresting the suspect.
"We're grateful to announce the successful apprehension of Augustine T. Lender, the young man who allegedly killed his girlfriend in Omega," Representative Mulbah said. "We're currently initiating all necessary legal actions to extradite the suspect back to Liberia from Sierra Leone so he can face formal prosecution under our laws."
According to the statement, authorities in Sierra Leone, including the country's Parliament, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), and other security officials, worked closely with Liberian law enforcement agencies to track and apprehend the suspect following the deadly incident that shocked the Omega community.
Representative Mulbah specifically acknowledged the contributions of Hon. Franklyn Shine, Clerk of the Parliament of Sierra Leone, CID Commander Mohamed Feika, the Crime Officer, the Liberia National Police Interpol Section, and the Omega Depot Commander for what he described as their dedication and cooperation throughout the operation.
The lawmaker emphasized that the arrest demonstrates the importance of international collaboration in combating crime and ensuring that suspects cannot evade justice by fleeing across national borders.
"Security is not about making noise; it is about taking strategic, decisive action to protect our people," Mulbah declared. "Our priority is to extradite the suspect back to Liberia so he can face formal prosecution under our laws."
The arrest comes after days of public concern and calls for swift action following the alleged killing of Dearest Paye. The case drew widespread attention, with residents demanding accountability and urging authorities to ensure that the suspect was brought before the Liberian justice system.
Representative Mulbah thanked the citizens of Omega Coal Field for their patience, vigilance, and continued cooperation with law enforcement, assuring the community that every legal step would be taken to complete the extradition process and ensure that justice is served for the victim and her family.
Z. Benjamin Keibah