Former Liberian Warlord Prince Johnson, infamous for his role in the brutal murder of ex-President Samuel Doe during the country’s civil wars, has passed away at the age of 72.
The death was confirmed by family members on Thursday, citing complications from high blood pressure.
Johnson gained notoriety during Liberia’s devastating civil wars (1989–2003), which claimed over 200,000 lives, displaced millions, and left countless victims mutilated and traumatized.
He led the forces that captured and tortured Doe in 1990, a gruesome episode widely condemned and immortalized in a chilling video showing Johnson drinking beer as his men mutilated the former president.
Despite his war record and a recommendation for prosecution by Liberia’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Johnson never faced trial for alleged war crimes, including murder and sexual violence.
After the war, Johnson transitioned to politics, becoming a senator for Nimba County in 2006.
Known as a political kingmaker, he wielded significant influence in presidential elections, despite his controversial past.
