As part of police commitment to transparency and professional policing, the Liberia National Police (LNP) has formally charged Madam Zainab Bah following a viral video of confrontation with police officers in relations to Power Theft. Speaking on Friday, August 1, 2025 at the LNP headquarters in Monrovia, Madam Cecelia G. Clarke said they have charged Madam Bah for non-compliance, and engaged in acts of aggression towards the officers, including throwing a bench and wasting hot soup at them, both considered criminal offenses, while initial restraint was justified, Madam Bah later de-escalated to passive resistance.
During a press briefing, Madam Clarke provided the investigative findings which resulted to legal actions. She said after following a comprehensive review, the Professional Standards Department (PSD) of the LNP established that the arrest of Madam Zainab Bah was lawful.
Police charged Madam Zainab Bah over the weekend with the crimes of Simple Assault, for throwing a bench and splashing hot soup; Preventing Arrest or Discharge of Official Duties, which is in violation of Chapter 12, Subchapter E, Section 12.2 of the Penal Law of Liberia; and Disorderly Conduct, under Chapter 14, Section 14.21 of the same law. The police added that these offenses are considered violations of the Revised Penal Code of the Republic of Liberia and are currently pending trial before a court of competent jurisdiction.
At the same time, police has charged Mr. Ibrahim Jalloh for Power Theft, in violation of Chapter 15, Section 15.81 and the amended Section 15.88, paragraph 5C of the Penal Law of Liberia. Jalloh is accused of tampering with LEC meters and bypassing billing mechanisms in an attempt to evade lawful payment for electricity services; adding that the offense is a criminal violation under Liberian law and is pending trial before a court of competent jurisdiction.
Accoring to Madam Clarke, officers were expected to prioritize de-escalation but did not. For that, she announced the suspension of Officer Alice Tokpah for one month without pay for misconduct during the arrest of Madam Zainab Bah.
The Police Spokesperson mentioned that Officer Tokpah actions included the unjustified removal of Madam Bah’s head covering and the use of excessive physical handling during a phase when the subject had transitioned to passive resistance; as such, for forcibly removing the child without seeking alternative means which was inappropriate and showed disregard for the child’s safety. As for his part, Officer Prince W. Chebo was exonerated as his conduct during the incident was found to be lawful.
Madam Clarke blamed officers and LEC personnel for failing to accommodate Madam Bah’s language barrier; as such, no effort was made to communicate through her husband or a translator, which could have prevented escalation. The LNP during a press briefing released its official findings on the July 22 saga involving Zainab Bah and Ibrahim Jalloh, who were alleged of stealing current in the Newport Street Community, Central Monrovia.
The incident occurred during a lawful power theft inspection by the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) sparked significant public attention and concern, particularly following a viral video depicting a physical encounter between officers and the Fulani. Police investigation claimed that he Officer Tokpah’s actions constitute “Unsatisfactory Conduct” and “Unsatisfactory Performance” under the LNP Administrative Instruction on Discipline and Professional Standards. Madam Clarke thanked Liberians for their patience and cooperation during investigation; as the police remains committed to transparency, accountability, and professionalism.
She said the appropriate actions have been taken in line with the law, and reaffirm dedication to protecting the rights of all citizens and strengthening public trust through responsible and respectful policing. Meanwhile, Madam Bah did not report any physical injuries during her interview, nor did her representatives.
