The Government of Liberia, through the Inspector General of the Liberia National Police (LNP), Gregory Coleman, has denied allegations made by suspect John Nyanti. Nyanti recently claimed that the government attempted to bribe him with US$200,000 to lie against former Speaker J. Fonati and others involved in the capitol arson case.
During a regular press briefing at the Ministry of Information on Thursday, June 19, 2025, Police IG Coleman stated that the LNP never met with suspect Nyanti nor attempted to bribe him. He explained that Nyanti was brought back to the county on June 6, 2025, due to the intervention of a family member who believed the suspect was willing to cooperate and serve as a witness.
“However, we all know that in criminal investigations, cooperating with suspects can be risky. When he was brought in at the request of a family member who facilitated the process, the LNP gave him the opportunity to demonstrate his willingness to assist with the investigation,” Coleman said. He added that it became evident during the process that suspect Nyanti was not trustworthy and that he had already been charged before being arrested and brought to the LNP headquarters.
The LNP chief emphasized that there was never a time when the government attempted to make a deal with suspect Nyanti or promised him what he is claiming. “The claims you are hearing, whether it’s US$50,000 or US$200,000, are unfounded. They falsely allege that we pressured him to lie about any of the defendants,” IG Coleman remarked. He reiterated that the LNP remains committed to pursuing the matter and is continuing its search for other suspects, noting that a full indictment has been issued against the defendants.
