By Precious D. Freeman
The Liberia National Police (LNP) has summoned seven sitting members of the House of Representatives for questioning in connection with the December 18, 2024, arson attack on the Capitol Building.
The lawmakers include former speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa, Prescillia Cooper, Dixon Seboe, Marvin Cole, Jacob Debee, Frank Saah Foko, and Abu Kamara, have been named as “persons of interest” in the ongoing investigation, according to a police communication.
The formal invitation was conveyed in a letter from Inspector General of Police Gregory Coleman to the House of Representatives.
Chief Clerk Mildred Siryon read the letter during the legislature’s regular session on Thursday, June 5.
The seven lawmakers are expected to appear at LNP headquarters on Friday, June 6. While specific allegations have not been disclosed, police say the move is part of efforts to identify those behind the coordinated arson that devastated parts of Liberia’s legislative seat.
The December 2024 fire gutted critical sections of the Capitol Building, including the Joint Chambers.
Authorities have since confirmed the blaze was not accidental, labeling it a deliberate act of arson.
At a January 8 press conference, Police Inspector General Coleman said forensic evidence ruled out any electrical fault and pointed to a coordinated and malicious attack on the national legislature.
“Our investigation has uncovered compelling evidence linking the fire to deliberate criminal actions,” Coleman declared. “We have identified individuals of interest and contacted them. If they fail to cooperate, we will initiate arrests.”
The fire reportedly started in multiple locations throughout the building—an indicator of a planned attack, according to investigators. Coleman also cited the dark, dense smoke as consistent with accelerant use, further supporting the theory of arson.
Eyewitnesses and live broadcasts on the day of the fire showed large flames and smoke consuming the Capitol Building.
Built in 1957, the historic structure is one of Liberia’s most important symbols of democracy and governance.
Authorities say some individuals were briefly detained following the incident but were released on personal recognizance.
Those same individuals are now under renewed investigation, and the police have warned that failure to appear will lead to immediate arrest.
IG Coleman emphasized that the fire investigation includes elements of criminal conspiracy, facilitation, and execution.
“We will not condone lawlessness in any form, especially against public institutions,” he said.
