Africa-Press – Liberia. Monrovia-The Liberia Football Association (LFA), acting through its Grievance and Disciplinary Committee (GDC), has lifted the suspension earlier imposed on four players of Paynesville FC. The players were suspended in connection with an ongoing investigation into alleged match-manipulation during the 2024/25 National League season.
According to the LFA, the decision followed what it described as a “high level of cooperation” demonstrated by the affected players throughout the investigation.
The four players cleared to resume football activities are Marlon R. Harrison, Prince P. Nagbo, Chris Dennis, and H. Dan Weah.
“The committee appreciates the players’ willingness to cooperate fully with the investigation and encourages continued collaboration as the process progresses,” the GDC said in its official statement.
Background to the Suspension
The match-fixing probe was triggered by Paynesville FC’s shocking 7–0 defeat to Shaita FC in April 2025, a result that immediately raised eyebrows across Liberia’s football community due to the unusual score line and circumstances surrounding the match.
Shortly after the defeat, audio recordings and chat messages surfaced in which some players allegedly discussed receiving a cash payment of US $300 prior to the match.
In response, the LFA provisionally suspended several players pending a full investigation by its Ethics and Disciplinary Committee, citing the need to protect the integrity of the national league. The association reminded all parties that its regulations impose severe penalties including a minimum two-year ban and heavy fines for any player or official found guilty of match manipulation.
Those Still Under Suspension
While the four players have been cleared to return, several others, including club captain Eugene Swen, remain suspended and under investigation. The LFA emphasized that the ongoing suspensions are precautionary measures and do not imply guilt.
Swen, who has been out of action since April, broke his silence in September 2025, expressing frustration over the prolonged nature of the process.
“The pain is too much sitting home,” Swen told reporters. “For six months, I have not played any active football. Even visiting any of their facilities is difficult. The suspension is a big blow to my career. I think the LFA must act now and release the findings so we can be free.”
Club and LFA Reactions
Following the 7–0 defeat, Paynesville FC issued a strong condemnation of match-fixing in a statement released on April 10, 2025, calling the allegations “damaging” but reaffirming the club’s commitment to integrity and fair play.
“Let it be unequivocally stated that Paynesville Football Club has always operated and will continue to operate within the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and sportsmanship,” the club said.
The following day, April 11, the club suspended six players and referred their names to the LFA for further investigation. The club’s Vice President for Operations, Joseph Y. Howe, Esq., was tasked with leading an internal probe into the matter.
“This action reflects our uncompromising stance against all forms of misconduct and our unwavering commitment to uphold integrity within the game,” the club’s statement added.
Next Steps and Ongoing Investigation
In its latest communication, the GDC reaffirmed that the investigation remains ongoing and that further disciplinary action may follow depending on the outcome of the review. The committee commended the four reinstated players for their cooperation but maintained that the integrity of Liberian football remains paramount.
Despite these developments, suspended players like Swen continue to await closure.
“I just want the truth to come out,” Swen said. “If I’m guilty, let it be said. If I’m innocent, I deserve to return to football.”
The LFA Ethics and Disciplinary Committee has yet to release its final report, leaving fans, clubs, and players in suspense over one of the most talked-about controversies in recent Liberian football.
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