Published: July 10, 2025
GBARNGA, Bong County — The Liberia National Police (LNP) has disrobed and suspended Chief Inspector Patrick Sendolo, Deputy Commander of the Crime Services Division (CSD) in Bong County, following the unauthorized release of a suspect in a major burglary case. Six other officers are also under investigation.
According to CSD Commander James Karto, the actions of Chief Inspector Sendolo violated police protocol and undermined public confidence in the force.
“Chief Inspector Sendolo has been disrobed and placed on administrative suspension,” Karto confirmed. “His office has been shut down, and he has been instructed to cease all official duties. Though not under arrest, he remains under police surveillance.”
The LNP has launched an internal probe through its Professional Standards Division (PSD), which is also reviewing the conduct of several junior officers. The investigation will determine whether criminal charges are warranted.
“This goes beyond an administrative issue,” Karto said. “It strikes at the core of our integrity as law enforcement officers. Headquarters in Monrovia has been informed, and appropriate disciplinary measures are underway.”
Legal analysts say Sendolo may have violated several provisions of the LNP Duty Manual and the Penal Law of Liberia. Article 22.76 of the Penal Law prohibits “official misconduct,” including unauthorized release of detainees and abuse of public office. Section 2.3 of the LNP Duty Manual also requires officers to act within the law and maintain the integrity of the force.
When contacted for comment, Chief Inspector Sendolo declined, stating he would need clearance from his superiors while the investigation is ongoing.
Authorities in Gbarnga confirmed that statements have already been obtained from Sendolo and several of the implicated officers. He is expected to be forwarded to LNP headquarters in Monrovia for further questioning.
The case took a new twist after an anonymous intelligence source came forward with serious allegations. The informant, who said he was working informally with the CSD, claimed he helped track down one of the burglary suspects linked to the main suspect, identified only as “John Lion.”
“I got the man’s picture from the CSD and traced him to a base in Monrovia,” the source told The Liberian Investigator. “When I confronted him, he tried to bribe me with $500 to let him go, but I refused.”
The informant alleged that he turned the suspect over to a police officer at the CSD office and personally witnessed the man being handcuffed. He later learned the suspect had been released without explanation.
“I risked my safety to assist the police,” he said. “I feel betrayed and exposed. I acted out of patriotism, but now I’m left feeling used.”
The police have not officially responded to the informant’s claims, but the account adds public pressure to a case that has already drawn significant scrutiny.
“This isn’t just about one officer,” the source added. “This is about the broader failure to act on credible intelligence and protect those who assist law enforcement.”
An investigative reporter in Bong County reports that the main suspect, “John Lion,” remains at large. Preliminary findings suggest he recently purchased a vehicle using proceeds from the burglary, which targeted a local shop operated by businessman Joma Agba near the Phebe Parking junction in Gbarnga.
Commander Karto acknowledged the gravity of the situation but urged the public not to lose faith in the police force.
“In every system, there are bad apples,” he said. “But the Liberia National Police remains committed to upholding justice and protecting citizens without fear or favor.”
Karto explained that the burglary was not a petty crime, but the work of organized criminals. “These suspects are not just thieves; they are part of a network threatening the safety and livelihoods of ordinary people,” he said.
He confirmed that community members initially spotted and apprehended one of the suspects before handing him over to police. However, the unauthorized release has since hindered the investigation.
Despite the setback, Karto said police are intensifying efforts to rearrest the fugitive and track down additional accomplices.
“We’re deploying our intelligence officers and working tirelessly to ensure justice is served,” he said.
The victim, Mr. Agba, has been advised to remain patient as the police continue their probe. Karto assured him that no effort would be spared to ensure accountability.
“This incident is regrettable, but we are determined to correct it,” Karto said.
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