By: Abraham K. Kollie (Margibi County)
Authorities of the Liberia National Police in Margibi County are investigating the alleged theft of a truckload of crushed rock meant for the ongoing Kakata Streets Pavement Project. The probe follows a formal complaint filed by Margibi County Development Officer, Mr. Lewis Kaine.
According to the police, the incident reportedly took place at a construction site in the Green Hill Community, within the county capital, Kakata. Mr. Kaine reported receiving credible information from local residents who claimed to have witnessed a truck unloading crushed rock at the site, which is believed to be part of a clinic construction project owned by Mr. K. Blessed Luah Habakkah, a 27-year-old resident of Gbofala Community.
During the preliminary investigation, Mr. Habakkah voluntarily waived his right to legal counsel and told investigators he had purchased the crushed rock from Mr. Alexander Melin, 30, a resident of Green Hill Community. Mr. Melin, who was also questioned without legal representation, claimed that he obtained the material from Mr. Peter S. Corneh, a 40-year-old driver working with the road project in the area.
Mr. Corneh, now considered a co-accused, confirmed Melin’s account, stating that Melin had approached him seeking to purchase crushed rock. He added that he connected Melin to one of his supervisors—identified as a Chinese national—who is part of the construction team working on the road project.
Police say they intend to question the Chinese supervisor to clarify his role in the alleged sale of government materials. Authorities have assured the public that updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
The incident has raised concerns among Margibi County residents, who fear that such actions could undermine critical development projects. The Government of Liberia, under President Joseph N. Boakai, recently launched the pavement of several streets in Kakata—a project that has garnered significant attention from citizens in and around Margibi.
Meanwhile, the Margibi County Police Detachment is calling on any individuals with relevant information to come forward as efforts to resolve the case continue.
