Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman, has categorically denied reports that linked the police for attempting to bribe suspect John Nyanti.
Nyanti is one of the prime suspects police is investigating the December 18, 2024, arson that put the Capitol Building inflames.
IG Coleman denied the LNP or any of it officers attempting to bribe a key suspect in an ongoing “high-profile criminal investigation involving an arson attack on the Capitol Building.”
The allegation of bribery, widely circulated in sections of the local media. It has drawn public criticisms and fueled debates about the integrity of the country’s justice system.
At a press briefing held on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at the Ministry of Information, Coleman clarified with firmness that it was none of police business to bribe a suspect to lie person(s) being investigated by law enforcers.
He described the bribery claims as “entirely false, misleading and unsubstantiated.”
“Let me make it absolutely clear that at no point in time did the LNP engage with suspect John Nyanti, concerning any bribe or promise of reward in exchange for false testimony,” Coleman stated.
“There is no one within the LNP, not even me, with the authority to commit the government to such illegal or unethical conduct.”
The allegations center around claims that officers of the LNP offered or negotiated a financial deal with suspect John Nyanti, in the Capitol arson case, in exchange for his cooperation.
Figures cited in various rumors ranged from US$2,000 to a staggering US$200,000. Some reports even alleged that Nyanti had demanded or refused the amount of US$50, 000 (the money) himself to testify or remain silent on certain aspects of the case.
But IG Coleman forcefully refuted these claims, stating that no such negotiations ever took place and that the rumors are based on misinformation designed to undermine the integrity of the police force and the credibility of the judicial process.
“Whether it is US$2,000, US$50,000, or US$200,000, the fact remains that there was never any promise, payment, or intent to engage in bribery,” Coleman reiterated.
“The police received a request, which we did not and could not honor. There was no money offered, and none was given.”
According to Coleman, Nyanti had been on the run during the early stages of the investigation and was identified as a ‘critical person of interest.’
His return to the country was not prompted by any covert deal or financial incentive, but was facilitated by a family member who gave assurances to the LNP of Nyanti’s willingness to cooperate.
“Nyanti did not turn himself in because of goodwill,” said Coleman. “He was already facing charges before returning.
“We allowed an opportunity for dialogue based on a family plea, but it soon became apparent that he could not be trusted.
His attitude during interrogation revealed inconsistencies, and we had no confidence in his cooperation.”
Upon his return, Nyanti was taken into custody, interviewed, and then formally charged. IG Coleman disclosed that the police followed all legal procedures during Nyanti’s handling.
He appeared with his legal counsel, gave a written and videotaped sworn statement, and was subsequently turned over to the court system in line with due process.
“Everything was done by the book. His lawyer was present and the statement was properly recorded.
When this matter proceeds to trial, all the evidence will be presented accordingly,” said Coleman.
He emphasized that the LNP has a zero-tolerance policy for any attempts to obstruct justice, tamper with evidence, or influence witnesses unlawfully.
He has meanwhile assured the public that the case is now under the jurisdiction of the court and that the police will continue to provide all necessary support to ensure that “justice is served.”
“We are a professional institution guided by the law. No suspect or witness will be bribed, or coerced into giving a statement.”
He warned against spreading misinformation that could derail the justice process or cause unnecessary public panic.
Coleman also appealed to media institutions to verify their sources and uphold ethical journalism standards.
In a significant development in the case, IG Coleman announced that the LNP is intensifying efforts to track down individuals of interest
The Interpol diffusion notices for fleeing suspects to red notices a step that would significantly enhance international cooperation in their arrest and extradition.
“This case extends beyond our borders. We are working with Interpol to ensure that those involved, wherever they may be hiding, are apprehended and brought to justice,” Coleman disclosed.
Nyanti faces multiple charges, including arson, conspiracy, destruction of public property, and attempted obstruction of justice.