The Office for the Establishment of the War and Economic
Crimes Court for Liberia (OWECC-L) strongly condemns an armed robbery attack on
the residence of its Gender and Youth Officer, Mrs. Sinami D. Sonpon, on
Saturday night, during which her mother sustained injuries.
According to accounts of the incident, the armed assailants
attempted to assault female occupants of the residence sexually. Still, they were resisted by Mrs. Sonpon’s husband, who is a serving police officer. During the
confrontation, the attackers wounded Mrs. Sonpon’s mother, making away with
cash and valuables before fleeing the scene, and at the same time issued a
warning to return.
OWECC-L considers the incident deeply disturbing and calls
on the relevant security authorities to conduct a prompt, thorough, and
impartial investigation to identify and bring the perpetrators to justice. The
Office also urges the authorities to ensure the safety and protection of Mrs.
Sonpon, her family, and other individuals who may be at risk.
The attack comes shortly after Mrs. Sonpon returned to
Liberia from The Gambia, where she formed part of a high-level Liberian
delegation engaged in discussions on women's rights and participation in
transitional justice, particularly efforts to ensure accountability for
atrocities committed against Liberian women and girls during the country's
civil war.
The timing of the incident raises serious concerns about the
safety of OWECC-L personnel.
However, the Office emphasizes that the circumstances
surrounding the attack must be thoroughly investigated before any connection is
established between the incident and Mrs. Sonpon's official duties.
FOURTH ATTACK ON OWECC-L PERSONNEL
The incident marks the fourth reported attack on personnel
of OWECC-L since the Office began its work two years ago.
Other officials who have reportedly been attacked at their
respective residences include the Executive Director, Dr. Cllr. Jallah A. Barbu
(Prof.); the Director of Research, Atty. Archie P. William; and the Associate
Director for Press and Public Affairs, Christopher K. Sellee.
OWECC-L notes with concern that some of the previous incidents
involved attackers chanting slogans opposing the establishment of the War and
Economic Crimes Court. These accounts heighten concerns about the possible
risks facing personnel engaged in advancing Liberia's transitional justice
process.
The Office stresses, however, that all reported incidents
must be investigated independently and professionally and that those
responsible are held accountable under the law.
COMMITMENT TO JUSTICE REMAINS UNWAVERING
Despite these disturbing incidents, OWECC-L reaffirms its
commitment to supporting the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court
and the National Anti-Corruption Court as important mechanisms for
strengthening accountability, combating impunity, and advancing the rule of law
in Liberia.
The Office maintains that efforts to pursue justice for
victims and survivors of the civil wars and to address corruption must proceed
in an environment where public officials, justice advocates, civil society
actors, and ordinary citizens can carry out their lawful responsibilities
without fear of intimidation or violence.
OWECC-L therefore calls on the Liberia National Police and
other relevant security institutions to give the reported attacks the urgent
attention they deserve, strengthen appropriate protective measures where
necessary, and ensure that investigations are conducted without fear or favor.
The Office also appeals to the public to remain calm and to
provide credible information to the appropriate authorities that may assist in
identifying the perpetrators of these attacks.
OWECC-L extends its concern and solidarity to Mrs. Sonpon
and her family, particularly her injured mother, and wishes her a speedy
recovery.
The Office reiterates that violence, intimidation, and
threats must never be allowed to undermine the pursuit of justice,
accountability, and lasting peace in Liberia.
