The Independent National Commission on Human Rights (INCHR) invited Immigration Commissioner General Elijah Rufus to a hearing on August 4, 2025, regarding allegations of his involvement in mysterious deaths in Liberia. However, Rufus failed to appear without excuse.
The CDC-Council of Patriots (CDC-COP) filed a complaint against Commissioner Rufus, accusing him of involvement in the deaths of Mayoungor Keleko and Yakpawolo Moisemai. Keleko’s mutilated body was found on December 31, 2024, in Duwoigomai Town, Voinjama District, Lofa County, while Moisemai died under suspicious circumstances while in police custody.
The INCHR has acknowledged receipt of the petition and is investigating the allegations. The commission has written to both Rufus and the CDC-COP chairman, Foday Massaquoi, to appear for a hearing. However, only Massaquoi honored the invitation. The CDC-COP demands that Rufus recuse himself from his position as Commissioner General of the Liberia Immigration Service and that an independent investigation be conducted into his potential involvement in the deaths. They also call for the immediate arrest of six LNP officers who were on duty the night Moisemai died.
Liberia is facing a human rights crisis, with nearly 638 cases of mysterious deaths, ritualistic killings, and unchecked police brutality going unpunished in the last 16 months. The CDC-COP’s petition highlights the need for accountability and transparency in addressing these issues.
The INCHR will continue its investigation and may refer the case to the Ministry of Justice for further action. The commission’s mandate is to investigate complaints of human rights violations and abuses, and it is expected to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation.