As tension swells over the mysterious death of 19-year-old Yakpawolo Moisemai, the main suspect in the murder of Moyoungor Keleko in Lofa County, residents are pointing fingers at Acting Immigration Commissioner General Elijah Rufus as the alleged mastermind.
Sources in the county claim Commissioner Rufus, whose original surname is Moisemai, is related to Yakpawolo and accuse him of orchestrating Keleko’s murder for ritual purposes to secure a job position.
Commissioner Rufus has vehemently denied the allegations, calling them “far-fetched and without truth.” He emphasized his faith, stating, “I am not a ritualist; I am a servant of God.”
Moyoungor Keleko, a 45-year-old woman, was found dead on New Year’s Eve along a farm road in Duwoigomai Town, Voinjama District.
A 15-member jury concluded foul play, citing deep cuts on her hands and a broken neck.
Yakpawolo Moisemai was arrested alongside four others as suspects. To preserve his testimony, police held Moisemai separately.
Days later, he was found hanging in a police cell, reportedly using his shirt. Despite being rushed to Tellewoyan Memorial Hospital, he was pronounced dead, and his body was moved to the hospital mortuary.
Residents allege Moisemai was murdered to silence a possible confession. Commissioner Rufus refuted claims of any relationship with the suspect, clarifying that while they share the surname “Moisemai,” he is not related to Yakpawolo and has not been to his hometown, Duwoigomai, since 1992.
Following Moisemai’s death, angry residents vandalized an immigration booth and destroyed a magisterial court allegedly built by Rufus’ father, Rufus Moisemai.
The Commissioner expressed concern for his officers’ safety and explained the distinct roles of security agencies in handling the unrest. He reiterated his innocence and urged calm as investigations continue.
