A scandal has rocked Liberia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports following confirmation by Minister Cllr. Jeror Cole Bangalu, that Deputy Minister for Youth Development, J. Bryant McGill, is under criminal investigation for allegedly raping a 14-year-old girl—the daughter of the Ministry’s Deputy Chief of Security.
Minister Bangalu, speaking to Verity News, stated that the Liberia National Police (LNP) has taken over the case and that a full investigation is underway. He emphasized his administration’s zero-tolerance policy on sexual misconduct and unethical behavior.
“Yes, we can confirm the case is with the police. Investigation is ongoing. At the Ministry under my watch, there is zero tolerance for unethical behavior, especially sexual misconduct. We are not taking this lightly,” Minister Bangalu said in a statement.
He added that administrative action will follow swiftly, pending the outcome of the investigation.
The case gained national attention after Verity News released disturbing audio recordings, including one in which the alleged victim’s father, Christopher, recounts the traumatic incident involving his daughter. The recordings have intensified public scrutiny and sparked widespread calls for accountability.
However, appearing on Spoon TV, Christopher delivered a heart-wrenching statement that has galvanized public outrage:
“I have not been able to rest since this incident occurred, and I am deeply concerned about my daughter’s future. I have endured tremendous suffering because of her, and her life is now in danger. I will not rest until justice is served,” he told Spoon TV during a late-night show.
His emotional testimony has sparked a wider discussion about the safety of minors in the presence of top government officials and the need for improved safeguards for them.
The revelation has raised significant concern about the behavior of government officials, prompting critical inquiries about government officials and the systems designed to safeguard vulnerable individuals.
