By Stephen N. Sonpon
MONROVIA, June 24 (LINA) – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has suspended Mr. Peter Malcolm King from his position as a member of the Board of Directors of the National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL), pending the outcome of an ongoing Joint National Security investigation into the seizure of approximately 237.6 kilograms of cocaine at Roberts International Airport (RIA).
The Executive Mansion announced on Monday, June 22, 2026, that the suspension takes immediate effect and follows a briefing provided by the Ministry of Justice and the Joint Investigative Task Force, which identified entities associated with Mr. King among institutions and individuals requiring further investigative scrutiny in connection with the high-profile narcotics case.
According to the Executive Mansion, the President’s decision is an administrative measure aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the investigation, maintaining public confidence in state institutions, and preventing any appearance of interference with the investigative process.
The government emphasized that the suspension should not be construed as a determination of guilt or a prejudgment of the outcome of the investigation.
”The suspension is intended solely to ensure that the investigative process proceeds independently, transparently, and without undue influence,” the statement noted.
President Boakai reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to combating illicit drug trafficking and strengthening Liberia’s institutions through accountability, transparency, and strict adherence to the rule of law.
The Liberian leader further called on citizens to remain calm and allow investigators to carry out their work without interference, urging the public to avoid speculation that could undermine the integrity of the proceedings.
The Executive Mansion assured Liberians and international partners that all matters related to the cocaine seizure will be pursued thoroughly and impartially in accordance with the laws of the Republic of Liberia.
The seizure of the estimated 237.6 kilograms of cocaine, valued at over US$9 million is one of the largest narcotics interceptions in Liberia’s recent history and has prompted intensified investigations by national security agencies as the government seeks to dismantle drug trafficking networks operating within the country.