The Panaromic Justice Group, based in Washington D.C., has issued a red alert regarding Ceasar Teai. Teai has been identified as one of the National Security Agents heavily implicated in the torture of Liberian citizens allegedly connected to the Capitol arson case. Reports indicate that Teai has fled Liberia and is currently involved in a marriage ceremony to secure U.S. permanent residency status.
A court ordered medical report, compiled by Dr. Philip Zochonis Ireland of AMI Medical Healthcare Center, found that defendants Eric Susay, Thomas Etheridge, and Jerry Pokah showed physical and psychological symptoms “highly consistent with allegations of torture”. The report detailed instances of severe beatings, waterboarding, and other forms of mistreatment while in state custody. According to the report, Eric Susay suffered chronic dislocation of the left shoulder, numbness and pain in the right arm, irregular heart rhythm, and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Thomas Etheridge’s examination revealed blurred vision, dislocated shoulder, and heightened anxiety, while Jerry Pokah had skin lesions consistent with blunt trauma.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which Liberia has signed, clearly states in Article 5: “No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.” Furthermore, the United Nations Convention Against Torture (UNCAT) highlights that torture is absolutely prohibited. It requires countries to take action by preventing torture, making it a crime in their laws, and holding those who commit such acts accountable. This convention is a strong reminder of the need to uphold human rights and dignity, with no exceptions for situations like war, public emergencies, or any other justifications.
The Panoramic Justice Group, led by retired U.S. Marine D. Garkpe Gedepoh, has expressed concern over the torture of the defendants and questioned why Caesar Teai, who supervised the torture, has fled the country for the US and is living lavishly in Philadelphia while the victims suffer from medical complications and psychological trauma. The group believes the case has broader implications for human rights in Liberia and could set a precedent for handling torture allegations in detention.
The Liberian government still hasn’t responded to the medical findings, even as pressure mounts to tackle the allegations and meet international human rights standards. This situation has reignited calls for an independent investigation into how the accused have been treated, along with potential sanctions against Liberian officials who may be involved in torturing the defendants. The Panoramic Justice Group has committed to collaborating with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to track down Teai and his associates, ensuring they face justice and are denied refuge in America.