By: G Bennie Bravo Johnson I
The Ministry of Justice has launched an immediate investigation into the death of Mr. Anwar Futloo, a South African National and the General Manager of the Boulevard Palace Hotel, who died under mysterious circumstances on December 30, 2024, in Monrovia.
“To ascertain the cause of his death, the Ministry of Justice has ordered an autopsy to be conducted on the remains of the South African national and businessmen.” The Justice Ministry stated
The Ministry on Saturday, January 4, 2024, provided that the Government is concerned about the death of the South African businessman and will do everything within its power to thoroughly investigate and prosecute anyone found implicated in his death.
Despite the Justice Ministry’s launch of the investigation, the Liberia National Police has initially prejudged the outcome of further investigation, averting that “Initial findings suggest suicide.”
Addressing a press conference on December 31, 2024, at the police headquarters, Inspector General Gregory Coleman revealed that preliminary findings suggest suicide, but the case remains under scrutiny.
According to IG Coleman, Mr. Futoo allegedly visited a Humanitarian Home on 9th Street, where he reportedly went into the bathroom and consumed a cleaning substance.
“The screams from the bathroom alerted security personnel, who rushed in and found him lying on the floor,” Coleman said. He added that before the incident, Mr. Futoo allegedly purchased the declutter from a local supermarket.
However, the police chief noted that a coroner’s inquest will provide further details as the investigation continues, and persons of interest have also been identified and are currently under investigation.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Justice has urged all citizens and foreign residents to remain calm, exercise restraint, resist speculations, and be assured that the protection and safety of all within the bailiwick of Liberia is a high priority despite this unfortunate situation.
The Justice Ministry, through the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Jutonu Youwateh Kollie, Sr., added that the Government has extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved family, the South African Government, and the business community for this great loss of their son, citizen, and business partner.
Director Kollie stated that the Ministry of Justice will keep the public and those with vested interests updated as the investigation unfolds and new information becomes readily available.
