MONROVIA – The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has demanded urgent and transparent justice following an update from the Liberia National Police (LNP) on the investigation into a rape allegation involving former Deputy Minister J. Bryant McGill and a 14-year-old girl, a case that has generated intense national concern.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, the Ministry acknowledged the LNP’s announcement on the outcome of a DNA analysis conducted on the survivor’s clothing, stressing that the gravity of the allegation carries serious implications for child protection and public confidence in Liberia’s justice system.
“The Ministry takes note of the result of DNA analysis recently announced by the Liberia National Police,” the statement said, underscoring the need for decisive and lawful action in addressing the alleged crime.
Given the seriousness of the case, the Ministry called on the LNP to immediately intensify its investigation and move swiftly to identify and arrest the alleged perpetrator responsible for what it described as a heinous act, in keeping with the laws of the Republic of Liberia.
“In view of the seriousness of the crime and the implications on child protection and public confidence in the justice system, the Ministry calls on the LNP to take immediate steps to continue its investigation and swiftly identify and arrest the alleged perpetrator,” the statement emphasized.
While noting the police position that the investigation remains ongoing, the Ministry assured the public that it will maintain close and continuous engagement with the LNP to ensure the matter is handled with the highest levels of urgency, professionalism, and transparency.
The Ministry further disclosed that its legal team is fully engaged and working alongside the LNP and other justice-sector institutions to follow up on the case, provide legal and technical support where required, and ensure that the rights, safety, and dignity of the child survivor are fully protected throughout the process.
According to the statement, the Ministry remains focused on ensuring that justice is delivered without delay while safeguarding the welfare of the survivor and upholding due process.
Reiterating its policy stance, the Ministry reaffirmed its zero-tolerance approach to rape, sexual exploitation, and all forms of violence against children, warning that such acts will continue to be met with firm institutional response.
The Ministry also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and to report all cases of abuse through appropriate channels, including the 116 toll-free line.
“Protecting Liberia’s children is a national responsibility,” the statement concluded. “The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection remains unwavering in its commitment to working with law enforcement and the justice system to ensure that perpetrators are held fully accountable and that survivors receive the protection, care, and justice they deserve.”
