Published: December 12, 2025
GBARNGA, BONG COUNTY —Sexual violence remains one of the gravest challenges confronting Liberia, leaving countless women and children vulnerable to abuse, stigma, and lifelong trauma. Despite laws designed to protect minors, many cases are silenced through community pressure and compromise, allowing perpetrators to escape accountability. Against this troubling backdrop, a recent case in Bong County has reignited national concern, underscoring the urgent need for stronger child protection systems and justice for survivors.
The Liberia National Police Bong County Detachment, through its Women and Children Section, has formally charged and sent to court a 19-year-old man identified as J. Christian Kargbo Jr., also known as MC J Christ, for allegedly raping a minor in Gbarnga, Bong County.
He was charged under the revised penal code of Liberia, Chapter 14, Sub-chapter D, Section 14.70, which criminalizes rape. The charge followed a preliminary investigation that included the survivor’s narrative and medical reports from Phebe Hospital, which confirmed evidence of sexual abuse.
The accused, apparently, a student of the Bong County Technical College and a former practicing announcer at Radio Kergheamahn 94.5 MHz in Ganta Nimba County, was taken into custody after the victim disclosed months of abuse.
Survivor’s Ordeal
The survivor, identified under a false name Jessica to protect her identity, revealed to investigators that she endured repeated assaults and threats from the accused, who warned her that he would kill her if she ever spoke out. Medical examinations confirmed infections and physical trauma consistent with her account.
The crime scene
The child, now in Kindergarten-2, has since developed severe health complications, including stomach pains and involuntary bedwetting at night, signs of ongoing psychological and physical distress. Her guardian, also identified under a false name Martu, expressed deep regret and pain over what the child endured, noting that Jessica continues to cry alone, suffering sharp pains and expressing that her future has been damaged.
Pressure and Intimidation
Since reporting the case, the guardian has reportedly faced immense pressure from family members and community leaders who attempted to compromise the matter. Religious leaders were even brought to her home to persuade her to drop the case, but she refused, insisting that “no compromise” will be accepted and that the child deserves justice.
Troubling Patterns of Abuse
This outlet investigative finding further revealed that the accused has been linked to other disturbing allegations. He was previously noted for “virginizing” a 17-year-old girl, while his family brother was accused years ago of raping a minor, which tragically led to a pregnancy and the death of the infant in the womb. The victim of that incident is said to still live on a farm in Bong County, bearing the scars of her ordeal.
These revelations highlight the generational nature of abuse and raise broader concerns about cycles of sexual violence and impunity within communities.
Denial and Court Proceedings
Despite mounting evidence, the accused has denied any wrongdoing, claiming he does not know the victim. His denial, however, stands in sharp contrast to the survivor’s testimony and the medical findings presented to police.
According to police investigator Fatu Kromah, supported by Crimes Services Division Commander James Kartoe, the survivor’s testimony and medical evidence were deemed sufficient to warrant formal charges. The case now rests in the hands of the court, as Jessica and her guardian continue to demand justice in the face of intimidation.
Broader Crisis of Sexual Violence
This incident underscores the growing crisis of sexual violence in Liberia, where rape has become one of the most pressing issues confronting women and girls. Survivors often face stigma, threats, and community pressure to remain silent, and many cases are compromised before reaching court leaving perpetrators free and victims without justice.
The Bong County case highlights the urgent need for stronger child protection systems, more effective law enforcement, and community accountability. For Jessica and countless other survivors, the path to healing is long and painful. Yet their voices, though trembling, continue to demand justice and a future free from abuse.
As the case proceeds in court, the Liberia National Police through CSD Boss James Kartoe has reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing justice for the survivor. But the broader question remains: how many more children must suffer before society confronts the entrenched culture of silence and impunity surrounding rape?
Disclaimer: False names have been used to protect the identities of the survivor and guardian.
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