For the past few days the people of Maryland County have taken to the streets in protest for the gruesome killing of a young man in Harper City, Maryland County. Even though the suspect has been apprehended by the Liberia National Police (LNP), the residents of the county have demanded speedy trial for justice to prevail.
In their quest for justice, the residents have destroyed the LNP police deport in Harper, broke the prison and set free all criminals incarcerated there and burned down the house of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Bhofal Chambers.
However, on Wednesday, March 31, 2021, the President of the Republic of Liberia, His Excellency George Manneh Weah, made an official position on the on-going matter in the southeast and, in an effort to calm the situation and bring things to normality, declared a curfew on the entire Maryland County, which takes effect today, April 1, 2021, from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. According to the President, the curfew remains in effect until otherwise ordered.
In his statement, President Weah said, “I am concerned about the recent developments in Maryland County. I have been informed of the gruesome killing of a young man in Harper City, Maryland County recently. Although a suspect was apprehended by the police and incarcerated pending subsequent investigation in accordance with due process of law, we have seen residents of Harper City, as well as Pleebo City, take to the streets to protest the killing. Some of them have engaged in wanton acts of destruction against private property and public facilities, including the burning down of police stations and other Government buildings.
“I would like to assure the people of Maryland County that this killing has claimed the urgent attention of the Government, and will be thoroughly, promptly and fully investigated. The perpetrators will face the full weight of the law.
“Meanwhile, I admonish the residents of Maryland County not to take the law into their own hands, but to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding, so that the criminal justice system can take its course. Any grievances should and must be channeled through the legal process, as Government will not condone lawlessness and violence at any time and from anyone.
“In order to keep the peace, and to ensure that law and order prevails, a curfew is hereby imposed throughout Maryland County from tomorrow, April 1, 2021, from 6:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. until otherwise ordered. This curfew will be strictly enforced by the police, who will be supported by the Joint Security Forces. All residents of Maryland County are advised to take heed and govern themselves accordingly. I thank you.”