By Precious D. Freeman
Police in Paynesville have arrested five men for allegedly impersonating as police officers and extorting money from motorists in the bustling Red Light commercial district.
The arrests took place on Saturday, May 10, 2025, during an undercover operation prompted by multiple complaints from drivers and business owners in the area.
The Liberia National Police (LNP) identified the suspects as Cornelius Deacon Neville, Peter Johnson, Moses Kolako, Peter Kollie and Abraham Saah.
According to a charge sheet released by the LNP, the men were caught actively engaging in unauthorized traffic control while dressed in official-looking police uniforms.
Investigators revealed that the suspects used forged and expired identification cards to present themselves as law enforcement officers. Among the materials recovered were fake IDs, including a forged LNP badge numbered LNP-4546 carried by Neville, and an expired Ministry of Justice ID belonging to Kollie.
“These individuals knowingly, purposely, and criminally impersonated security officers and engaged in active policing functions,” the LNP stated in its report. “They were extorting money from drivers under the pretense of enforcing traffic laws.”
Officers from the Criminal Services Division (CSD) led the operation that resulted in the suspects’ apprehension. Upon arrest, the individuals were advised of their constitutional rights, which they voluntarily waived before being formally charged.
Charges filed against the group include Impersonating Officials under Chapter 12, Subchapter B, Section 12.35 of the Penal Code, and Forgery under Chapter 15, Subchapter E, Section 15.70.
Neville and Kollie face both charges, while Johnson, Kolako, and Saah have been charged solely with impersonation.
Witnesses say the suspects were seen flagging down commercial drivers, directing traffic, and collecting unofficial “fines” from unsuspecting motorists.
Their presence and actions created confusion in the already congested Red Light area, leading to complaints that ultimately sparked the police investigation.
“The audacity and coordination of this impersonation ring are concerning,” said a police spokesperson. “This was not a case of individuals dressing up for mischief—it was a calculated attempt to deceive and defraud the public.”
The uniforms worn by the suspects appeared to be replicas of official police attire, including shirts with LNP insignias and matching trousers.
The police believe the outfits may have been acquired through unauthorized channels, and investigations are underway to determine their origin.
Authorities also warned that additional individuals may be involved in the scheme. “Others yet to be identified will be charged in absentia as the investigation continues,” the police noted, hinting at a broader network behind the impersonation ring.
Four of the five suspects were released on bail after legal representatives filed bond papers. One individual remains in custody pending trial, as legal proceedings begin in Monrovia.
Community leaders in Paynesville expressed relief following the arrests, calling for increased vigilance and police visibility to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“People need to trust that when they see a uniform, it represents law and order, not deception,” said one resident.
The LNP has urged the public to report any suspicious individuals attempting to enforce the law without proper identification or authorization.
As the investigation unfolds, law enforcement officials emphasized the seriousness of impersonating as security personnel; a crime they say undermines public trust and compromises the integrity of national institutions.
