By By: Staff Writer
Monrovia, Liberia – The Ministry of Justice has rejected allegations circulating on social media and in parts of the media that Justice Minister Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh, Sr. stalled or interfered with prosecution in a case involving Mr. Hans Armstrong and heavy-duty mining equipment in Sackie Town, Bomi County.
In a press release issued by the Ministry, Director of Press and Public Affairs Jutonu Y. Kollie said the claims that the Attorney General “protected any accused individual” or “compromised prosecution for improper reasons” are untrue and unsupported by the record. The Ministry stated that Liberian courts have already issued favorable rulings recognizing Armstrong’s ownership interest in the equipment, which it said undercuts suggestions that justice has been denied.
According to the release, the Ministry’s recent action followed a Feb. 3, 2026 directive from President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. ordering investigation and prosecution of alleged unlawful destruction of private property in Bomi County. Pursuant to that directive, the matter was referred for prosecutorial action and the Montserrado County Attorney appointed a Special Prosecution Team led by Atty. John F. Dexter Puiyoye and Cllr. Isaac B. Williams. The team was mandated to act independently and in line with Liberian law.
The Ministry said the Special Prosecution Team conducted interviews, visited locations, reviewed court records, and submitted an investigative report. The report, it noted, recognized Armstrong as the rightful owner of the equipment and documented interference with his ability to take possession, while recommending further prosecutorial and judicial action. The Ministry added that it had begun its own investigation based on Armstrong’s complaint before the President’s directive, then elevated the case as instructed.
Addressing the allegations directly, the Ministry said at no point did the Minister instruct prosecutors to block an indictment, protect an accused person, or interfere with the courts. It cautioned that criminal prosecution must be based on evidence and law, not public pressure, and urged parties to seek enforcement of court orders through legal remedies such as a Bill of Information rather than social media.
“The Ministry remains committed to the rule of law, the protection of lawful investment, the independence of the courts, and accountability for all persons who violate the law,” the release stated. It called on the public to disregard what it termed unfounded claims intended to erode trust in public institutions.
Armstrong is represented by legal counsel, the Ministry noted, and said his lawyers are aware of proper procedures for enforcing court orders or challenging perceived obstructions.
The dispute centers on heavy-duty mining equipment located in Senjeh District, Bomi County. No new charges or court actions were announced in the Ministry’s statement.
