-In Nimba County
By Jerromie S. Walters
Nimba County, Liberia – A tragic incident unfurled in the College View Community of Nimba County on Sunday, where a 60-year-old woman, Koo Yalamah Suah, allegedly murdered her younger sister, Naohn Dahn, over accusations of witchcraft.
According to sources close to the investigation, the fatal altercation stemmed from Koo Yalamah Suah’s belief that her sister, Naohn Dahn, was responsible for her prolonged illness. Reports indicate that Koo had consulted a native doctor, who allegedly accused Naohn of using witchcraft to cause her sickness. This accusation reportedly fueled Koo’s anger, leading to the violent confrontation that resulted in Naohn’s death.
The incident was brought to light by Women TV Liberia, an online platform that first reported the story. Community members expressed disbelief and sorrow over the tragedy, describing both sisters as long-time residents of the area. Neighbors recounted that the two had lived together for years, making the violent turn of events even more distressing.
Local authorities have launched an investigation into the murder, and Koo Yalamah Suah is currently in police custody. The case has reignited conversations about the prevalence of witchcraft accusations in rural communities and the devastating consequences they can have. Many are calling for increased awareness and education to combat harmful superstitions that often lead to violence.
Residents say this tragic incident conforms as a grim reminder of the need for legal and social interventions to address deeply rooted cultural beliefs that can result in fatal outcomes. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of Naohn Dahn and grapples with the circumstances that led to her untimely death.
A flashback
Late March 10, 2024, Ma Bolor Wisseh was brutally assaulted and video recorded by a group of individuals in the Chocolate City community on false accusations of witchcraft. The video was widely circulated on social media. She later died due to the brutalization and it was confirmed that she was innocent of the allegation. Ma Bolor Wisseh died around 4:30 PM on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at the ELWA Hospital in Paynesville.
Many condemned the attack on Ma Bolor Wisseh and questioned why only those who are hugely affected by poverty are considered witches. Following the incident, Human rights advocates called on the Liberia National Police (LNP) and the Ministry of Justice to investigate the circumstances surrounding the merciless brutality of Ma Bolor.
Addressing the Director of Police, Coleman, and Justice Minister Tweh, human rights advocate Courage Sundberg Sundberg highlighted the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that such acts of violence not only violate human rights but also undermine the core values of justice and compassion.
“Dear Director Coleman and Justice Minister Tweh, I write to you with a heavy heart regarding a deeply disturbing incident that took place in our Chocolate City community on the 10 of March 2024, where an elderly woman was subjected to a brutal assault by a group of individuals who accused her of witchcraft. This reprehensible act of violence is not only a gross violation of human rights but also an affront to the principles of justice and compassion that we hold dear.”
The letter emphasized the urgent need for swift action to apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators responsible for this despicable crime. Sundberg urged the authorities to uphold the rule of law, hold the guilty parties accountable, and prevent further incidents of vigilantism and impunity in society.
Sundberg: “It is with great concern that I bring this matter to your attention, as it is indicative of a larger issue of vigilantism and impunity that threatens the safety and security of our society.” In his opinion, too often, individuals take the law into their own hands, leading to tragic consequences and the loss of innocent lives. “Such incidents not only undermine the rule of law but also erode the trust and confidence of the populace in the authorities tasked with protecting them.”
Sunberg, “As a human rights advocate, I urge you to take immediate action to apprehend and bring to justice those responsible for this heinous act. The perpetrators must be held accountable for their actions and face the full force of the law.” Sundberg called for proactive measures to address the underlying issues that contribute to such violence, advocating for tolerance promotion, and support systems for vulnerable community members.
Furthermore, he said measures must be taken to address the root causes of such violence, including promoting tolerance and providing support to vulnerable individuals in our communities. Sundberg stressed the importance of decisive intervention to demonstrate zero tolerance for acts of violence and discrimination. “I implore the Government of Liberia to intervene decisively in this matter and send a clear message that acts of violence and discrimination will not be tolerated in our society.”
