Key facts
- Liberian President Joseph Boakai has dismissed a dozen government officials and referred others for investigation.
- The dismissals follow major drug seizures, including nearly four tonnes of cocaine worth an estimated $317 million.
- Another seizure in June involved about 238 kilograms of cocaine worth an estimated $19 million.
- Dismissed officials include airport operations staff, senior law enforcement supervisors, and National Security Agency employees.
- West Africa is identified as a key transit hub for cocaine destined for Europe.
Liberian President Joseph Boakai has dismissed a dozen government officials and referred several others for investigation following a series of major drug seizures. The dismissals, which include airport operations staff and senior law enforcement supervisors, come amid intensified scrutiny of Liberia's narcotics problem and public calls for greater accountability.
Earlier in July, Liberian authorities seized nearly four tonnes of cocaine with an estimated value of $317 million near Roberts International Airport. This followed a June seizure of approximately 238 kilograms of cocaine, valued at an estimated $19 million, found hidden among commercial cargo at the same airport.
President Boakai ordered the immediate dismissal, suspension, and investigation of officials and law enforcement personnel implicated in the cases. Those affected include the airport's deputy director for operations, the police commissioner for criminal investigation, intelligence and Interpol, and the deputy director for administration at the National Security Agency. Additionally, all government employees and law enforcement officers indicted in connection with the two major seizures were dismissed, including the airport's director of security and the deputy commander of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency at the airport.
Four employees from the National Security Agency and the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection were also dismissed and their cases referred to the Ministry of Justice for prosecution. Following the initial June seizure, Boakai launched a coordinated investigation to ensure accountability under the law.
According to the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime, West Africa serves as a critical transit hub for cocaine destined for Europe. In response to the drug busts, several hundred protesters in Monrovia recently demanded swift action and rapid charges.