By George K. Momo
MONROVIA, Aug. 14 (LINA) – The Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Information has disclosed that investigation into the US$19.317 million drug case is ongoing, with several individuals already charged and additional indictments being prepared.
Information Minister Jerolinmek M. Piah disclosed recently that those arrested and charged include persons who were serving in government.
He said some have been dismissed, while others are currently facing suspension pending the outcome of the investigation.
Minister Piah stated that the probe has generated significant evidentiary leads and has revealed the existence of an organized, sophisticated, complex and well-funded narcotic trafficking network.
“Very importantly, the investigation has also revealed that this network has been operating in Liberia for a considerable period of time, specifically more than six years,” he disclosed.
According to the Minister, all available investigative leads are being pursued to determine the full scope of the illicit narcotics operation.
He indicated that the investigation is aimed at identifying participants, financiers, organizers, handlers, facilitators, insiders, and foreigners linked to the network.
Minister Piah warned that any public official, security officer, private citizen, private company or corporate actor found to have knowingly participated in the scheme, or to have attempted to obstruct the investigation or compromise its integrity, will face the full consequence of the law.
He also commended members of the Joint Security Investigative Task Force for their work.
“We commend members of the Joint Security Investigative Task Force for their professionalism, integrity and unwavering commitment to the rule of law, he said.
The Information Minister assured the Liberian citizenry as well as international partners that the Joint National Security Investigative Task Force will keep the public informed about developments in the ongoing investigation.
The US$19.317 million drug seizure remains one of the largest narcotics cases in Liberia’s history and has triggered a multi-agency probe involving national and international security and justice institutions.