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    Nimba Cultural Coordinator, Melvin Gbeilah Duo Jails Over kidnapping and coerced initiation attempt of Journalist Alex Yormie to the Poro society

    2 months ago

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    Melvin Gbeilah Duo, the General Cultural Coordinator of Nimba County, spent his initial night in police custody in Saniquellie due to his purported involvement in the kidnapping and coerced initiation attempt of journalist Alex Yormie. Yormie, a Danish broadcaster at Radio Lar-why in Tappita, Lower Nimba, was allegedly attacked and carried into the Poro Society forest after reporting on the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ halt of traditional society activities.

    The detention follows a rapid response by Internal Affairs Minister Francis Nyumalin, advocates for human rights, organizations in civil society, local authorities, and media figures, such as members from the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) and the Nimba County Community Radio Association (NICORA).

    Melvin Duo is anticipated to show up in court soon. Reports suggest that his family is attempting to address the issue privately, requesting an out-of-court agreement. Internal Affairs Minister Nyumalin has separated himself from those initiatives, asserting that "his hands are not involved."

    The event took place on June 30, just after Yormie released a transmission detailing the ministry’s choice to halt all Poro and Sande society operations across the country until January 2026. The journalist stated that Duo had contacted him that day, insisting he go to his home for interrogation regarding the broadcast, which he alleged was slanderous to the revered organization. Yormie rejected the invitation because of the call's aggressive tone.

    While heading home, Yormie was reportedly taken by unknown people, assaulted, and placed into a pickup truck. He was brought to Yriah Town, where he was to be compelled to join the Poro Society. Nevertheless, the local Bush Master allegedly declined to move forward, mentioning the suspension by the government. Yormie was subsequently brought to a nearby town, where he momentarily fled and concealed himself in the woods before being caught again.

    His ultimate release was enabled by the involvement of PUL, county officials, and members of the Liberia National Police.

    Before Yormie’s release, Duo confirmed that the journalist had been brought to the Poro Society headquarters for interrogation. He asserted that local elders and the journalist's relatives had been called to establish if Yormie was part of the society and why he had openly talked about its matters. Duo refuted allegations of any physical attack.

    After his release, Yormie was observed to have noticeable bruises and poor physical health, which further supported the allegations of abuse.

    At the same time, the situation has garnered nationwide focus and discussions regarding press freedom, cultural customs, and human rights in Liberia.

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