The Liberia National Police (LNP) has confirmed the death of a 17-year-old boy reportedly shot by officers of the Police Support Unit (PSU) but said the death of was unintended.
According to a statement released by the LNP in response to the incident, investigating into circumstances surrounding the death of James Kandy is underway.
As investigation progresses, the LNP disclosed that preliminary information suggests that police officers responded to a violent situation involving threats against a community resident by individuals suspected of drug trafficking.
During officers’ response on the scene, the police explained that Officer Ismael Trawally discharged his firearm, which led to what the LNP describes as “The unintended death of James Kandy.”
The LNP emphasized that they are treating the matter with the utmost seriousness and will ensure that the investigation is conducted with transparency..
The death of Kandy sparked protest on Wednesday, July 3, 2024 in the Rehab Community when students took to the streets demanding justice
Kandy was reportedly shot and killed on July 1, 2024 by officers of the Police Support Unit (PSU) of the Liberia National Police.
The protesters, who included both students and local residents, demanded justice for Kandy. They called on government authorities to immediately investigate the PSU officers involved in the incident.
Protesters carried placards with inscriptions such as “PSU officers, the boy you killed is a student. We want justice for Kandy.”
As our correspondent reporter, who was on the scene reports, the tragic incident occurred when PSU officers reportedly acting on the orders of businessman Mawolo Jallah, arrived in the community to arrest two individuals following a verbal exchange.
The individuals were in a nearby ghetto and the PSU officers arrived to execute the arrest.
Eyewitnesses reported that after detaining the suspects, the PSU officers attempted to place them in Jallah’s car.
Friends of the suspects objected, insisting that the suspects should not ride in the complainant’s vehicle, a refusal which led to a verbal altercation that resulted to the shooting by the police officers.
A bullet struck 17-year-old Kandy, causing him to fall instantly. He later died from his injuries.
