LNP Forwards PLP Secretary-General to Court for ‘Misleading the Public

The Liberia National Police (LNP) yesterday October 5, forwarded David Beyan, the acting secretary-general of the People’s Liberation Party, to the Paynesville City Court on charges of ‘raising a false alarm.

Beyan earlier claimed that he was shot by unknown men, though it was later revealed that he shot himself. Police spokesperson H. Moses Carter disclosed that suspect Beyan has been charged by the LNP for raising false alarms, illegal possession of a firearm, and misinforming law enforcement officers. 

“Beyan is being turned over to the court, specifically the Paynesville Magistrate court, on charges ‘raising false alarm, misinforming law enforcement officers and also in possession of a firearm,” he said.

Suspect Beyan reportedly alarmed weeks ago to the public that he was attacked by unknown men along the Kakata Highway, a statement that heightened already prevailing perceptions of insecurity in the country, implicating the sitting government.

The PLP through its political leader, Dr. Daniel E. Cassell, along with Executive Members of the Organizing Committee (OC), quickly suspended him from the party for shooting himself and lying that he was attacked by unknown men.

According to Carter, following Beyan’s allegations that he had been shot by unknown men, the police conducted an investigation and found out that the claim was misleading and that it was only intended to cause chaos and panic among the citizenry. “Whatever he claimed occurred was far from the truth,” Carter said, adding that the police immediately confiscated the gun from Beyan.

However, LNP has cautioned the public to investigate posts made by people on social media platforms so as to curtail unnecessary fear. “This is to let the public know that whatever you hear from the public, it is important that you go beyond what is being said.” He reiterated that the job of the police is based on facts and not sentiments. “When things happen, it’s good to allow the police to conduct their investigation before reaching a conclusion.”

However, Carter assures the public that the country is safe and peaceful and the security is intact. “LNP remains very focused and resolved in ensuring the protection of the lives and property of the citizens. So both our citizens in and out of Liberia we want to assure you of our unflinching commitment to protect the citizens.”

According to him, there are other cases before the police, which are being investigated in accordance with the law. However, he warned that those caught making false claims to the police will not go with impunity.

“There are other cases that come to our desk, such as citizens claiming that they were allegedly kidnapped. Those people are being consul lawfully and we are going to go beyond to ensure that every account that has been given to us is investigated properly. If it is established that the claims are genuine, perpetrators will be arrested, charged, and forwarded to court. If it is also established that those people who are making claims are false and intended to cause chaos and panic in our country, that person will not go with impunity and they will face the full weight of the law,” he added.