By George K. Momo
MONROVIA, Aug. 14 (LINA) – In a significant move to combat illegal activities on Liberia waters, Information Minister Jerolinmek M. Piah has disclosed that the vessel, IB Atlantic IV, which was within Liberia’s coastal waters and was pursued for arrest by the Liberia National Coast Guard, has been arrested by Ivorian authorities.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information regular press conference on Tuesday, August 10, 2026 in Monrovia, Minister Piah said the Government of Liberia is currently in contact with the Ivorian Government, including authorities at the highest level, to facilitate the return of the vessel to Monrovia for further investigation.
“The government through its responsible sectors will ensure it investigates this matter to its conclusion without fear or favor,” he noted.
According to the Minister, it has been established that a fishing vessel from Liberia went out to sea to meet the IB Atlantic IV.
He noted that the incident is being investigated by the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) to determine the facts surrounding the Liberian fishing vessel’s encounter with the IB Atlantic IV.
The IB Atlantic IV, flying the flag of Comoros, was first seen anchored off York Island in Tewor District, Grand Cape Mount County.
The vessel’s presence for several weeks raised concern and fear among local fishermen and residents, who alerted authorities.
In response, the Armed Forces of Liberia dispatched members of the country’s Coast Guard to the area for investigation.
However, upon their arrival, the vessel departed Liberian waters, which prompted the Government of Liberia to contact its Ivorian counterpart, which led to the vessel’s arrest in Ivory Coast.
Minister Piah assured the public that the government will provide further updates as efforts to bring the vessel back to Liberia for investigation.