LDEA CONFIRMS CUSTODY OF “PERSONS OF INTEREST” IN $19M RIA DRUG SEIZURE, PLEDGES PUBLIC RELEASE OF DETAILS AS TRANSNATIONAL PROBE CONTINUES
BY: Margret Nyumah
MONROVIA – The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency has confirmed that several persons of interest are in its custody in connection with the US$19 million cocaine seizure at Roberts International Airport, as investigators work to build a transnational case before releasing identities to the public.
Speaking Thursday at the Ministry of information in Monrovia, LDEA Officer-in-Charge Fitzgerald Biago said the probe into Liberia’s largest-ever drug bust is active and complex.
He emphasized that the case extends beyond Liberia’s borders and therefore requires more time than a routine criminal investigation.
“This is not a regular criminal investigation, it is a transnational crime that requires time,” Biago explained. “Give us time as we put our pieces of evidence together.”
The $19 million cocaine seizure at RIA last month has drawn intense public and international scrutiny, given its scale and implications for Liberia’s image as a transit point for illicit drugs.
Biago’s comments suggest the LDEA is coordinating with international partners to trace the shipment’s origin, destination, and network of actors involved before making disclosures that could compromise the case.
The Authority has faced mounting pressure to provide transparency on arrests and prosecutions following the record bust.
Officials say balancing public accountability with investigative integrity remains a priority as the case moves forward.
The LDEA is expected to release further details on suspects and charges once evidentiary procedures are complete.