MARYLAND- The Liberia National Police (LNP) in Grand Kru County have launched a full-scale investigation into the death of a 43-year-old man who allegedly committed suicide while in police custody as he awaited trial for an alleged rape case.
According to an official police report, officers of the LNP Grand Kru Detachment discovered the lifeless body of the suspect, identified as James Doe, hanging inside a police cell during the evening hours of Wednesday, January 14, 2026.
Police authorities said the suspect had earlier been arrested by members of the Community Watch Forum (CWF) and subsequently handed over to the police following allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman in the community.
The identity of the alleged victim has been withheld by police to protect her dignity and privacy.
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Investigators disclosed that preliminary findings indicate the alleged victim was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident, a claim she reportedly confirmed during police questioning at the crime scene.
Authorities, however, emphasized that intoxication does not diminish the seriousness of the allegation nor negate the rights of the alleged victim under the law.
Further details revealed that a 22-year-old son of the alleged victim reportedly raised an alarm after he allegedly caught the suspect in the act.
His swift action drew the attention of nearby residents, triggering public concern and immediate intervention by the Community Watch Forum.
Following his arrest, the suspect was transported to the LNP Grand Kru Detachment, where he was placed in a holding cell pending further investigation and court proceedings.
Police say that routine checks were being conducted when officers later discovered the suspect unresponsive.
The LNP confirmed that the body was examined and has since been turned over to medical authorities for further assessment, while internal procedures are being followed to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
Police officials stressed that an internal inquiry is ongoing to establish whether proper custodial protocols were followed and to rule out any foul play.
The findings of the investigation, they said, will be made public upon completion.
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Meanwhile, the incident has sparked renewed public debate in Grand Kru County about custodial safety, police accountability, and the handling of sensitive criminal cases involving sexual violence.
The Liberia National Police has called on the public to remain calm as investigations continue, reaffirming its commitment to transparency, justice, and the protection of human rights.
Alphonso Toweh
Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters
He holds first MA with honors in International Relations and a candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict Resolution from the University of Liberia.
