By Jamesetta D Williams
MONROVIA – The Liberian government has its critics in the handling of the RIA Cocaine bust to provide hardcore evidence of allegation of high-profile officials’ involvement in the historic drug explosion.
The government is said to be struggling to get to the nitty-gritty of the case in spite of constant assurances and commitment to ensuring “those involved and connected to the drug scheme are exposed and brought to justice.”
Information Minister Jerolinmek M. Piah has urged individuals alleging high-level government involvement in the US$19.2 million cocaine seizure at Roberts International Airport to submit credible evidence to investigators, stressing that the government remains focused on dismantling drug trafficking networks rather than political blame games.
Speaking during a lengthy Ministry of Information press briefing, Minister Piah said the government is committed to a full investigation into the case and warned against what he described as unsubstantiated public accusations against officials.
He stated that Liberia’s security and justice institutions, along with international partners, are working to uncover and dismantle what he referred to as drug cartels operating within and beyond the country.
The Minister challenged critics to provide verifiable information if they believe government officials are involved, noting that such evidence should be submitted through official channels or international investigative partners.
During a question-and-answer session, Minister Piah became more forceful in his remarks, arguing that individuals making public allegations without proof were politicizing a serious national security issue.
He emphasized that the government is not conducting an investigation to “fund corporations” or make political statements, but rather to dismantle organized criminal networks involved in drug trafficking.
“If you have evidence, present it,” he said, adding that accusations without proof undermine national efforts and distract from ongoing investigations.
Minister Piah further stressed that Liberia’s anti-drug campaign has the full backing of the President and national security institutions, and warned against attempts to turn the investigation into political controversy.
He concluded by reaffirming that the government will pursue all individuals implicated in drug trafficking regardless of status, while urging the public to cooperate with investigators instead of spreading unverified claims.
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