Monrovia, Liberia – July 7, 2026 – The Office of Senator Momo Tarnuekollie Cyrus has dismissed media reports and public commentary linking him and SEGAL Incorporated to the ongoing investigation into the seizure of approximately US$19 million worth of cocaine at Roberts International Airport (RIA), describing the claims as inaccurate and unsupported by facts.
In a statement issued Tuesday, the Senator’s office acknowledged the media’s constitutional role in promoting transparency and accountability but urged journalists and commentators to ensure that reporting on the high-profile narcotics case is based on verified facts rather than speculation.
The statement emphasized that Senator Cyrus resigned as General Manager of SEGAL Incorporated immediately after assuming public office and has since had no involvement in the company’s daily operations or management.
“Since entering public service, he has neither participated in the day-to-day management of the company nor exercised any operational authority over its affairs,” the statement said, adding that SEGAL continues to operate independently under its own leadership and administrative structure.
Founded in 2006, SEGAL has grown into one of Liberia’s private security firms, providing security services to government institutions, diplomatic missions, international organizations, commercial businesses, non-governmental organizations, mining companies, marine operations, and private clients.
The Office argued that recent attempts to associate Senator Cyrus with the ongoing drug investigation based solely on his historical relationship with the company ignore the distinction between former ownership and operational management.
Addressing SEGAL’s contractual role at Roberts International Airport, the statement clarified that the company’s responsibilities are limited to outer or perimeter security services.
According to the Office, SEGAL officers are assigned to regulate access to designated areas, patrol facilities, and protect property from unauthorized intrusion.
The statement stressed that the company does not inspect cargo, verify shipping documentation, operate cargo scanners, inspect freight containers, clear imports or exports, supervise customs procedures, conduct narcotics detection, direct airport intelligence operations, or investigate criminal activity.
It noted that those responsibilities fall exclusively within the mandates of government agencies responsible for customs, aviation security, immigration, narcotics enforcement, airport operations, and criminal investigations.
“The mere fact that a private security contractor provides contracted perimeter security services to a client cannot reasonably or legally be construed to make that contractor responsible for alleged criminal conduct involving that client or any third party,” the statement asserted.
The Office also accused unnamed individuals of attempting to politicize the ongoing criminal investigation by promoting narratives not supported by established facts, warning that such speculation could undermine both the investigation and public confidence in the process.
Rather than engaging in public exchanges, Senator Cyrus said he supports a national conversation grounded in evidence, responsible journalism, and due process.
The statement further highlighted Senator Cyrus’ more than 25 years of experience in Liberia’s security sector, noting that his career has focused on strengthening national security institutions, promoting accountability, and upholding the rule of law.
As Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Defense, Intelligence, Security and Veteran Affairs, the Senator reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that every individual or institution connected to the drug trafficking investigation is subjected to a thorough, impartial, and credible investigation.
“No person should be regarded as being above the law,” the statement declared, adding that political influence, economic status, or institutional affiliation should never shield anyone from accountability.
The Office also noted that Senator Cyrus serves alongside Senate Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga Lawrence as Co-Chair of the Senate Committee of the Whole overseeing the Senate’s review of matters related to the investigation.
According to the statement, those oversight responsibilities will continue to be exercised independently and without fear or favor.
The Office further assured the Liberian public, the diplomatic community, civil society organizations, and Liberia’s international partners that Senator Cyrus has “absolutely nothing to hide” and has never interfered, directly or indirectly, with the ongoing investigation.
It concluded by reaffirming the Senator’s support for law enforcement agencies and the rule of law, stressing that the fight against drug trafficking requires national unity, professional investigations, independent institutions, and adherence to due process.
“The fight against drug trafficking is larger than any individual, institution or political interest,” the statement said. “It is a national responsibility that demands unity, integrity and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law.”
The statement reflects the position of Senator Momo Tarnuekollie Cyrus’ Office in response to recent public commentary regarding the ongoing cocaine trafficking investigation. The investigation by Liberian authorities remains active.
