Liberia: Judge Sentences Three in River Gee, Two Escape During Jailbreak

A judge sentenced three men in River Gee County for various crimes, but two of them escaped from prison shortly after sentencing. This has raised concerns about security protocols at the Fish Town Central Prison as authorities launch a manhunt to recapture the fugitives.

FISH TOWN, River Gee County – In a notable ruling, the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit Court in River Gee has sentenced three individuals following their guilty pleas. However, this legal victory has been overshadowed by a security breach at the Fish Town Central Prison, where two of those sentenced managed to escape.

Judge D. Onesimus Banwon presided over the case and handed down sentences earlier this week. Nelson Jolo was given a hefty 15-year term for armed robbery after he was found guilty of stealing from Madam Mercy Seabo in Fish Town back in February 2025. Meanwhile, two other defendants, Peter Weah and Samuel Toe, faced convictions under Liberia’s New Drug Law, relating to the illegal possession and distribution of controlled substances. Weah will spend ten years behind bars, while Toe received a longer 17-year sentence.

The court’s proceedings took a dramatic turn just two days after these sentences were issued when it was reported that three inmates escaped from the prison on the evening of May 27. Among the escapees were Jolo and Toe, raising serious concerns about prison security. The third escapee, Anthony Davis, was serving a one-year term for a separate offense.

Judge Banwon, addressing this unsettling event, stated that a coordinated security operation is now underway, aiming to recapture the escapees. He also noted that an internal probe is being conducted to uncover how the jailbreak occurred and whether any security protocols were compromised. As of now, scant details are available regarding the escape method or potential involvement of prison personnel in the incident.

In summary, the recent sentencing of three men in River Gee County has been largely overshadowed by their subsequent escape from prison. Following their convictions for serious crimes, including armed robbery and drug offenses, the security measures at the Fish Town Central Prison are now under scrutiny. Authorities have begun a manhunt for the escapees, signaling a pressing need for improved prison management and oversight.

Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com