By By: Alphanso G. Kalama;
Monrovia, Liberia – The Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) has firmly refuted allegations made by Hassan Fadiga, former Deputy Director for Operations of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), regarding threats against his safety. The AFL dismissed Fadiga’s claims as baseless and misleading, emphasizing their commitment to justice and the rule of law.
The allegations surfaced while Fadiga is under investigation by the Liberia National Police (LNP) for allegedly assaulting an AFL personnel. According to an official AFL statement, Fadiga used pepper spray and an open handcuff to wound Staff Sergeant Joseph Broh of the 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Brigade.
The confrontation occurred at approximately 1700hrs on February 21, 2025. Staff Sergeant Broh, driving a Nissan Primera (plate number A116799), was traveling from ELWA Junction towards the VOA Community in Paynesville. At an intersection near the Graystone Bricks Factory, Broh encountered a Renault Duster (plate number A45903) driven by a member of the Fadiga family. The Fadiga driver aggressively demanded the right of way, despite sufficient road space.
Following a verbal altercation, one of the Fadigas exited the vehicle and deployed two large canisters of pepper spray directly into Broh’s face through his driver-side window. As Broh attempted to defend himself, he was struck with an open handcuff below his right wrist, sustaining a puncture wound.
In response to the attack, Broh contacted his Commander Sergeant Major, who swiftly dispatched military assistance. Simultaneously, a group of 25 to 30 LDEA personnel, some armed, arrived at the scene in response to a call allegedly placed by one of the Fadigas. The AFL noted concern over the unauthorized deployment of LDEA officers, questioning the agency’s operational oversight.
The Military Police (MP) unit of the AFL, led by its commander, arrived at the scene to support the LNP investigation. Police authorities took charge, instructing all involved parties to report to Zone 8 Police Station. However, the injured Staff Sergeant Broh was transported to the 14 Military Hospital for treatment.
Upon arrival at Zone 8 Police Station, the Fadigas reportedly refused to cooperate with investigators, declining to provide a written statement. Even with the presence of their legal representative, no progress was made. Despite multiple attempts by AFL and LNP senior officers to resolve the matter, the Fadigas remained uncooperative.
Medical and Legal Follow-Up
After receiving emergency care, Staff Sergeant Broh underwent standard AFL medical testing for drugs and alcohol, both of which returned negative results. The AFL confirmed that he will continue follow-up treatment at the 14 Military Hospital and will be available for further police investigation when required.
The AFL reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law and urged the public to rely on credible sources for information, discouraging the spread of misinformation. The military emphasized that there was no basis for Fadiga’s allegations against the AFL Chief of Staff, calling for a fair and transparent resolution of the case.
As investigations continue, the AFL remains focused on upholding justice and ensuring the integrity of both the military and the nation’s justice system.
