LNP Debunks Daily Observer’s Allegations
“We wish to address recent publications by the Daily Observer Newspaper, in which the Managing Editor, Bai Best, claimed that journalists from their entity were detained, harassed, and intimidated by the Liberia National Police (LNP) in connection with a story regarding the tragic death of Boulevard Hotel Manager, Anwar Futloo. These allegations have been portrayed inaccurately and require clarification,” an LNP release has indicated. “The LNP would like to state unequivocally that no journalists were wrongfully detained, harassed, or intimidated. Contrary to the misleading reports, journalists from the Daily Observer were invited to the police station for a conference or questioning as part of the ongoing investigation into the death of the Boulevard Hotel Manager. Initially, this investigation considered the death as a suicide, contrary to the Observer’s report of homicide,” the release further noted. According to the release, during this initial meeting, the invited journalists were treated with the utmost respect and were scheduled for a follow-up meeting; adding, “The invitation for questioning was in line with standard investigative procedures and conducted professionally.” Ahead of the scheduled meeting, the release said the Daily Observer published articles falsely alleging threats and detention of their journalists. “We categorically deny these allegations and are disheartened by the propagation of such inaccuracies. The publications on January 14, 2025, titled “Daily Observer Journalists Face Threats, Detention from Police Over Boulevard Story” and “PUL Detests Harassment of Daily Observer Journalists by LNP” misrepresent the facts,” the release also debunked. In light of these false allegations, the LNP said it will submit a formal letter of complaint to the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) to address the situation. “We are committed to maintaining transparency and upholding the integrity of our investigative processes, ensuring that all interactions with the media are conducted with professionalism and respect,” the release said. It further noted: “We urge media outlets to adhere to journalistic standards of accuracy and fairness, and to verify information before publication to avoid misinformation that could mislead the public and harm the reputations of individuals and institutions. We remain dedicated to serving and protecting the citizens of Liberia and will continue to work collaboratively with the media to ensure accurate and truthful information dissemination.”
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