Authorities at the Paynesville City Corporation (PCC) have announced the suspension of Officer Solomon L. Boakai of the Paynesville City Police Department pending a full investigation.
The decision follows an incident involving Officer Boakai and a pregnant street seller earlier Wednesday morning in the bustling Red-light commercial hub which resulted in the lady being hospitalized at John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital in Sinkor.
According to preliminary accounts, Officer Solomon Boakai was enforcing City Ordinances regulating street vending within restricted commercial zones.
During the operation, Officer Boakai encountered a pregnant woman engaged in selling within the prohibited area which he had gone to enforce the rules but was later escalated into a physical confrontation and resulted in a tussle that caused visible distress to the pregnant woman.
The officer has since been turned over to the Liberia National Police (LNP) for a comprehensive investigation into the matter while Fatu Kamara, who is 39 years old, is now stable and responding well to treatment at JFK.
At the same time, the PCC authorities have temporarily removed Officer Boakai from active duty pending a thorough and impartial investigation.
The Corporation emphasized that it has a zero-tolerance policy for actions that compromise the safety, dignity, and human rights of citizens.
“The well-being of our residents, especially vulnerable individuals, remains a top priority. We are committed to ensuring that all city officers conduct themselves with professionalism and respect during enforcement operations”. A PCC spokesperson noted.
The PCC has extended its concern to the affected woman and assured the public that a detailed inquiry is underway to establish the full circumstances surrounding the confrontation.
The Corporation has also encouraged witnesses to come forward to support the fact-finding process.
As the investigation proceeds, the PCC reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining order in the commercial districts while ensuring that enforcement measures are carried out responsibly and humanely.
Meanwhile, PCC has assured the public that appropriate actions will be taken once the investigation is concluded thus committing to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and accountability within its law enforcement agencies.
