A few days ago, the Ministry Of Gender, Children And Social Protection-Liberia received with profound shock and deep sorrow reports concerning the tragic deaths of three young children in Mehnla Town, District 9, Nimba County which reportedly occurred in the early hours of February 22, 2026.
According to preliminary information from community sources and local health officials, including the Officer-in-Charge and Menla Clinic, three children were discovered deceased in their grandmother’s residence in Mehnla Town. Initial reports indicate that the children’s biological mother, Mercy Giah, age 26, had been away at the time of the incident. Upon her return, she reportedly discovered her three children dead, with indications that sharp objects were used in the commission of the act.
Community sources further indicated that the grandmother was initially missing following the discovery, which raised suspicion among residents. She was later reportedly apprehended by community members and handed over to authorities.
The deceased children have been identified as:
Mewaseh Giah, age 6
Marvelous Zainsaye, age 4
Alvina Tokpah, age 2
All three children were reportedly residing with their grandmother at the time of the incident.
The Ministry notes that the Liberia National Police has issued an official statement following a preliminary investigation. According to police sources, the accused, Mary Giah, age 56, confessed during preliminary questioning to killing her three grandchildren.
Police further reported that the suspect alleged she committed the act following repeated accusations by her daughter’s boyfriend, who reportedly accused her of practicing witchcraft and provoked her over time. The suspect is quoted as stating that she believed nothing good would come between her daughter and the man, prompting her actions.
The police have confirmed that investigations remain ongoing and that additional details will be released as they become available.
Ministry’s Intervention
The Ministry has formally requested the Officer-in-Charge, the Ministry of Health, and Menla Clinic to establish immediate contact with the biological mother, Mercy Giah**, with the primary objective of securing her safety and providing psychosocial support. Follow-up actions are ongoing in coordination with local health authorities.
The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection strongly condemns all forms of violence against children and reiterates its commitment to child protection, justice, and accountability. We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved family and the people of Mehnla Town during this painful time.
The Ministry will continue to collaborate closely with law enforcement agencies, health authorities, and community leaders to ensure justice is served and appropriate support is provided to all affected persons.
Signed:_________________________
D. Webster Cassell
Communications Specialist
Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection
