A report from Nimba County says a 46-year-old Nepali national, an employee of ArcelorMittal Liberia, identified as Ruggas Navin, is in police custody for allegedly raping a 15-year-old girl and possessing marijuana. Police say the suspect is currently detained at the Ganta Police Station, while investigations continue. Authorities have assured the public that the case will be prosecuted consistent with the law.
According to the Liberia National Police Women and Children Protection Section in Nimba, the alleged incident reportedly took place at a hotel in Ganta. However, in a twist, the 15-year-old girl has told reporters that the suspect did not rape her; instead, they have been in a romantic relationship. She explained that they first met while she was selling in the market, where the suspect obtained her phone number and later began enticing her with money and food, leading to multiple encounters.
She further alleged that on February 26, the suspect invited her out at night, when the alleged incident reportedly occurred, adding that she fell in love with him and the two had maintained a relationship since then.
Nevertheless, under Liberian Law, sexual intercourse with a minor, regardless of consent, constitutes statutory rape, punishable with up to 10 years in prison for second degree rape and life imprisonment for first degree rape.
The alleged victim also revealed that she has two exes prior to meeting the Nepali. Authorities say the matter was later reported to family members, which prompted law enforcement officers to arrest the suspect. Police in Ganta say the investigation remains active.
At the same time, the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency, LDEA, has confirmed that the suspect was fou` nd with marijuana at the time of his arrest. The agency’s Nimba County Detachment is now investigating to determine the quantity and street value of the substance.
