By Grace Q. Bryant
The Liberian National Police (LNP) has ordered the arrest of Representative Frank Saah Foko and summoned Speaker Fonati Koffa for questioning following the fire that damaged the Capitol Building early Wednesday, December 18, 2024.
According to Police Inspector-General, Gregory Coleman, the investigation has linked social media posts by the two lawmakers to the fire. “References to ‘Alamo’ and Representative Foko’s threats are not viewed as coincidences,” Coleman said.
The LNP has identified four individuals alongside Koffa and Foko, as persons of interest.
The lawmakers have voluntarily turned themselves in to aid the investigation, and police continue to probe potential arson.
International experts are expected to assist with forensic analysis, including the examination of electronic evidence.
At a special press briefing, Inspector-General Coleman emphasized that lawmakers are not immune to prosecution for criminal acts.
“You’re not covered by legislative amenities if you do something that represents a felonious crime,” he stated.
The LNP has also urged the public to provide information, offering a $5,000 reward for credible leads.
Minister of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism Jerolinmek Piah addressed the incident during the same briefing, underscoring the government’s commitment to maintaining order. “There is a government in place, and our primary responsibility is the protection of lives and property. Those bent on causing chaos will be met with the full force of the law,”
Piah appealed for unity, stressing the importance of avoiding misinformation and violence.
He reminded Liberians of the country’s turbulent history, from a brutal civil war to the current phase of rebuilding, and warned against actions that could derail progress.
Minister Piah also called on the media to act responsibly, accusing some outlets of spreading sensationalism and misinformation.
He highlighted instances where images from other countries were misrepresented as events from Liberia, which he said undermines peace efforts.
“We’ve supported the registration of 37 new media institutions, but with freedom comes responsibility. We urge media practitioners to adhere to ethical journalism accuracy, balance, and credibility and avoid actions that incite unrest,” Piah added.
The government has emphasized the need for collective action to safeguard Liberia’s fragile peace. “Let’s work together to sustain the progress we’ve made. Peace is fragile, and it is everyone’s responsibility to protect it,” Piah Said.
Meanwhile, in response to the incident, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) deployed a team of environmental scientists to assess the carbon monoxide pollution caused by the fire.
The team led by EPA’s Executive Director Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo, included Deputy Executive Director Dweh Siehwloh Boley, Manage of Environmental Research & Radiation Safety (ERRS) Rafael Ngumbu, and Compliance and Enforcement (C&E) Manager John Jallah.
During their inspection, the EPA team assessed various parts of the building, including the heavily damaged Rotunda, where the joint chambers of the Legislature were burned to ashes.
Speaking to journalists after the tour, Dr. Urey-Yarkpawolo expressed deep concern over the extent of the destruction. “We observed areas that are highly polluted, mainly in the Rotunda.
The joint chamber was burned to ashes. We have advised the investigation team on safety measures, but the impacts of this damage will be felt for a long time,” he stated.
He emphasized the importance of environmental safety during the ongoing investigation, noting that high levels of carbon monoxide and other pollutants pose risks to those working at the site. Authorities have assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the cause of the blaze and the full extent of the environmental and structural damage.
