By Clarence Briggs
BOPOLU, GBARPOLU COUNTY, Liberia — A 54-year-old man is under investigation by the Liberia National Police following allegations that he sexually assaulted an 11-year-old girl in Matumuquelleh Town, Gbarpolu County.
Police identified the suspect as John Lamar, a resident of Matumuquelleh Town, where the alleged incident reportedly occurred on Sunday, November 1, 2026.
According to preliminary information from the police, the matter was brought to the attention of the Bellekpalamu Police Detail by Town Chief Junior Kollie and Alfred Sumo, a member of the Community Watch Forum.
The child reportedly told investigators, in the presence of her mother, that she was returning from a farm when she encountered the suspect, who allegedly assaulted her.
Following the complaint, community members reportedly apprehended Lamar and subsequently turned him over to the police for investigation.
The victim was later taken to a medical facility in Gbanjay for examination and treatment. Police said preliminary medical findings were reportedly consistent with the allegations.
Investigators also disclosed that the suspect allegedly admitted to the incident during preliminary questioning. However, the circumstances surrounding the alleged admission remain subject to further investigation.
After initial proceedings at the Bellekpalamu Police Detail, Lamar was transferred to the Liberia National Police Headquarters in Bopolu for further investigation by the Women and Children Protection Section (WACPS).
POLICE CONFIRM ONGOING INVESTIGATION
Gbarpolu County Police Commander, ACP Clement Barlatt, confirmed that the investigation is continuing.
Police have yet to announce the outcome of their investigation or indicate whether formal charges have been filed against the suspect.
The case remains under investigation, and the suspect is presumed innocent unless proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
