By Jamesetta D. Williams
The Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT), through Deputy Minister for Press and Public Affairs Daniel O. Sando, has provided clarification on recent allegations of rape being investigated by the Liberia National Police (LNP).
Speaking at a press briefing, Minister Sando addressed public concerns about perceived delays in arrests, particularly regarding Deputy Minister Bryant. “As usual, people are jumping to conclusions, asking why certain individuals haven’t been arrested,” Minister Sando said.
He explained that the LNP emphasized the need for the public to understand that every case is unique. “In some cases, suspects can be immediately linked to the scene of the crime because evidence is readily available. In other cases, suspects cannot be immediately connected, and further investigation is required,” he added.
Minister Sando clarified that the cases being compared are not the same. “In one instance, the suspect was arrested in the room with the victim. In the other case, it was solely an allegation made after the alleged act. The suspect in that case maintains he was not present on the day stated by the victim,” he said.
He further emphasized that the LNP treats everyone equally. “Evidence availability dictates immediate arrests, while other situations require time for proper investigation to establish probable cause. There is no preferential treatment,” Minister Sando stressed.
The Deputy Minister also noted that the President delayed administrative action in some cases to allow for proper investigation. “The suspension was necessary pending further findings,” he concluded.
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