Liberian News: Robbers Desecrate Johnsonville Cemetery

By Jamesetta D Williams

Monrovia-Just days before Liberia’s annual Decoration Day, a shocking incident has occurred at the Johnsonville Cemetery, near the turning point, where several graves have been opened and desecrated by unknown individuals believed robbers. Reports indicate that the culprits took caskets and them and any valuables buried with the deceased, apparently to resell them.

Eyewitnesses and residents in the area expressed outrage and concern over the act, describing it as a heartless and disrespectful attack on the dead.

“This is an abomination,” said one resident.

“We are supposed to be preparing to honor our loved ones, not finding their graves desecrated.”

The motive behind the robbery is suspected to be financial, as grave robbers often target burial sites in search of jewelry, money, and other valuables that may have been placed inside coffins.

The act has sent shockwaves across the community, with families worried about the security of their loved ones’ final resting places.

Local authorities have been informed of the situation, and investigations are expected to commence. Law enforcement officials are urging community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities around cemeteries, especially as families prepare to visit graves for Decoration Day.

Decoration Day, observed on the second Wednesday of March each year, is a national holiday in Liberia dedicated to honoring the dead. Families visit cemeteries to clean, decorate, and pay respects to their deceased relatives. However, this recent act of vandalism has left many grieving families distressed and demanding swift action from authorities.

Community leaders and religious groups have condemned the act, calling for urgent measures to protect cemeteries from further desecration. “This is not just about stealing,” one pastor said. “This is about the dignity of our ancestors and the respect we owe them.”

As investigations continue, families affected by the grave robberies are calling for justice and tighter security at cemeteries to prevent such incidents in the future. Authorities have promised to intensify patrols and take necessary actions to hold the perpetrators accountable.

Alphonso Toweh

Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets  including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and  did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters 
 He holds first  MA with honors in International  Relations and a  candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict  Resolution from the University of Liberia.