By Sampat JMB Kpakimah
Deputy Minister for Press and Public Affairs at the Ministry of Information-MOI- has disclosed the involvement of key United States security and law-enforcement institutions in the ongoing investigation into a major drug trafficking network, describing the development as a strong indication of international confidence in the government’s handling of the case.
Addressing the media during its regular Thursday press conference, Sando revealed that personnel from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and forensic investigators are currently in Liberia to support the investigation and help uncover the full extent of the alleged drug trafficking network.
He said the involvement of these U.S. institutions demonstrates the commitment of Liberia’s international partners and their confidence in the administration of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., as it works to confront the illicit narcotics trade.
Deputy Minister emphasized that the arrest and prosecution of individuals already identified as members or accomplices of the alleged cartel does not mark the end of the investigation.
“The investigation does not stop there. There are accomplices, and the investigation is still ongoing,” the government said.
Speaking on behalf of the government Sando also assured the public that additional individuals identified during the investigation will be arrested and prosecuted as evidence emerges.
According to Daniel Sando, the administration has taken a series of measures to bring the situation under control, including the seizure of significant quantities of narcotic substances, laboratory testing of samples and the preservation of portions of the seized substances as evidence for prosecution.
In addition, the bulk of the seized narcotics, has already been destroyed in accordance with established procedures, he explained
The Sando further disclosed that individuals accused of betraying public trust by using their official positions to collude or conspire with members of the drug cartel have faced disciplinary and legal action. Some have reportedly been dismissed, suspended or placed under investigation, while others have been prosecuted.
He maintains that the actions demonstrate the government’s seriousness and uncompromising position on dismantling the alleged cartel and preventing Liberia from becoming a destination for transnational criminal activities, particularly the trafficking of narcotic substances.
The government maintained that Liberia remains open for legitimate business and investment but will not tolerate the use of its territory for drug trafficking and other forms of organized crime.
Sando also rejected attempts to politicize the national fight against illicit drugs, stressing that the issue goes beyond political interests and directly affects the well-being, security and reputation of the country.
“We reject any attempt to politicize the situation because this issue goes beyond politics. It is about the well-being of the nation and the reputation of the country,” officials said.
The Deputy Minister Sando said the involvement of the U.S. Government and other international partners reflects the seriousness with which the matter is being handled and provides additional support to Liberia’s law-enforcement and investigative efforts.
Sando referenced ongoing court proceedings involving some of the suspects, expressing hope that the prosecutorial process will lead to convictions and appropriate punishment for those found guilty.
Daniel Sando reiterated the government’s commitment to keeping the public informed as the investigation progresses, including when new suspects are identified, arrested, and prosecuted.
