Peter Bon Jallah DNA evidence presented in Liberia rape trial

Forensic and DNA evidence has become a central focus in the criminal trial of Peter Bon Jallah, a former senior staffer of Liberia’s National Security Agency. Jallah faces charges including gang rape, statutory rape, and kidnapping.

Evidence analyzed by the Rwanda Forensic Institute, following a request by the Liberia National Police, reportedly shows a DNA match between Jallah and four items of clothing: a white T-shirt, a black T-shirt, shorts, and a pair of boxers. The boxers were collected from the 15-year-old victim, while the other items were recovered from the crime scene. The forensic report concluded that Jallah could not be excluded as the contributor of the DNA found on these items.

A Rwandan forensic pathologist testified in Criminal Court ‘E’, presenting findings that suggest the victim was subjected to repeated sexual assault. While the DNA results establish a scientific link between the defendant and the biological material, the court must still determine the circumstances under which the DNA was deposited. Jallah has pleaded not guilty to all charges and maintains his innocence.