By Jamesetta D Williams
Several weeks into the RIA $19.2 million cocaine mystery, heightened mix-reactions and misrepresentations continue unabated, with the Liberian government seems to be adopting what political observers see as “intimidating tactics” by warning Liberians against the politicization of the matter of such a grave concern.
It will be exact one month in the next few days since Liberia’s first major cocaine bust was reported at the Roberts International Airport (RIA) after pensive security agents on duty intercepted a whooping US$19.2 million worth of cocaine reportedly bounded for the international market.
The discovery did not only take the nation by shock but also reignited debate about government’s commitment to the fight against drug and other deadly narcotic substances that have inundated the society.
Both President Joseph Boakai and his officials did not mince words in vowing “no stone will be left unturned” in getting to the bottom of the matter, ensuring those responsible are brought to book and justice. But with just few persons of interest announced and one person turning himself in, government is still struggling to bring the matter to full disclosure, in terms of naming the rest of the hidden hands in the drug cartel, mainly those responsible for the $19.2 million cocaine mystery.
As the matter continues to draw national and international attention with both opposition and in-position political leaders calling on the government to do the needful, only pledge of commitment to drug fight continues to come out from officials, including what appears to be intimidating tactics – warning Liberians against politicizing ongoing investigations.
During the ministry of information regular press briefing Thursday, the dais was more about the Boakai administration’s unfailing commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks operating in Liberia, while also warning against attempts to politicize the ongoing investigation into the reported US$19 million cocaine seizure.
Deputy Minister for Public Affairs Daniel Sando made the threats but described drug trafficking as one of Liberia’s greatest national security threats, saying the government is determined to identify and prosecute everyone connected to the case.
Just as others before him have said, Sando told reporters that the investigation goes beyond the seizure itself and is focused on exposing the criminal network behind the shipment.
“This investigation is not just about making arrests. It is about dismantling the cartel that is using Liberia as a transit point for international drug trafficking,” Sando said.
According to him, the Liberia National Police has already indicated that criminal charges against several suspects are expected before the end of the week.
He urged Liberians with credible information about the case to cooperate with security agencies instead of using the issue for political gain.
“If you have information that can help this investigation, cooperate with the security institutions. This is a national issue that affects every Liberian,” he said.
Sando disclosed that the government is working closely with international partners to trace all individuals linked to the alleged cocaine shipment and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
He warned that anyone who conceals information or attempts to shield suspects could also face the full weight of the law.
The minister rejected suggestions that the government is targeting only low-level suspects, insisting that investigators are working methodically to identify every individual involved in the alleged drug trafficking operation.
Turning to criticism from some opposition figures, Sando accused certain politicians of exploiting the drug investigation for political purposes instead of supporting efforts to combat narcotics trafficking.
Without directly addressing specific allegations, he questioned the credibility of individuals facing legal and integrity issues who continue to criticize the government’s anti-corruption and anti-drug campaigns.
Sando also addressed concerns about delays in several high-profile criminal cases, including the investigation into the Capitol Building arson incident.
He said repeated appeals and procedural motions before the courts continue to slow criminal trials, emphasizing the need for broader judicial reforms to improve the efficiency of Liberia’s justice system.
According to him, the government supports reforms that would reduce delays in criminal proceedings and strengthen the prosecution of serious offenses.
The minister further revealed that more than 1,000 people have been arrested in connection with drug-related offenses across Liberia, although he acknowledged that many cases remain pending because of court backlogs and prolonged pretrial detention.
He suggested that Liberia consider establishing specialized courts to handle drug trafficking and corruption cases, arguing that dedicated courts would accelerate prosecutions and improve the country’s response to organized crime.
Sando emphasized that all suspects whether Liberian or foreign nationals are prosecuted under the same laws, noting that nationality does not exempt anyone from criminal responsibility.
He also highlighted ongoing security cooperation between Liberia and neighboring countries, including intelligence sharing and cross-border collaboration aimed at disrupting regional drug trafficking networks.
The minister concluded by encouraging journalists and the public to verify information before publication or dissemination, urging responsible reporting as the government continues its investigation into the drug case.
He reiterated that the Boakai administration remains committed to protecting Liberia’s international reputation by aggressively confronting drug trafficking and strengthening national security institutions.
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