21/08/2026
LMDC, PBL Forward Two Suspects to LNP Over Alleged Medical Malpractice
PAYNESVILLE, Liberia โ August 21, 2026: The Liberia Medical and Dental Council (LMDC), in collaboration with the Pharmacy Board of Liberia (PBL) and Ministry of Justice, has forwarded two suspects to the Liberia National Police (LNP) for further investigation into an alleged medical malpractice case linked to the death of 20-year-old Princess Dupee in Barshell Community, Paynesville Red Light.
The suspects are 58-year-old Wilson Sumo, who reportedly claims to have worked as a nurse aide since 2010, and his 20-year-old alleged accomplice, Johnson T. Baryo. They were arrested on August 20 following a clinical assessment conducted by the LMDC with support from the Ministry of Justice.
Sumo reportedly admitted treating Princess at his drugstore after she was brought in complaining of fever and severe weakness. He said he administered medication and intravenous fluids but later advised her relatives to seek treatment at a larger health facility after her condition failed to improve. Princess was subsequently pronounced dead at another healthcare facility.
Baryo denied treating Princess, stating that he was at the drugstore when she arrived but had left on an errand and returned after the treatment had already been administered.
Meanwhile, the deceased's fiancรฉ, Janjay Logan, said Princess had not previously complained of any health problems and that he was unaware of any pregnancy or other medical condition. Some community members have raised allegations concerning a possible attempted abortion and Logan's knowledge of the circumstances surrounding Princess's death. These allegations have not been independently verified and remain subject to investigation.
The LMDC and PBL have urged members of the public to seek medical care at properly licensed and accredited healthcare facilities and warned against unauthorized individuals providing medical treatment from drugstores or pharmacies.
The regulatory bodies emphasized that pharmacies and drugstores are primarily intended for dispensing medicines and providing pharmaceutical services, not for replacing properly equipped healthcare facilities. They further warned that individuals found practicing medicine or administering treatment without appropriate authorization could face the full extent of the law.
The suspects have been turned over to the LNP, while the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities have urged the public to allow due process to take its course and refrain from drawing conclusions until the facts are fully established.