Authorities in Liberia have charged five suspects after over 200kg of cocaine was seized at the international airport in Monrovia on June 8. The shipment, valued at approximately $19 million (£14.2 million), was falsely declared as Maggi seasoning cubes. This drug bust marks one of the largest in the country's history.
Cocaine Trafficking Operation in Liberia
Insp Gen Gregory Coleman described the operation as a serious transnational cocaine trafficking scheme using Liberia's aviation and logistics system. Evidence was found linking this shipment to a similar one processed in May. Coleman stated, “This was a serious transnational cocaine trafficking operation using Liberia’s aviation and logistics system as a channel for organised crime.”
The suspects, whose names were revealed during a press briefing, are charged with the transportation, possession, and illicit trafficking of controlled substances along with criminal conspiracy. The key suspect, the operations manager of the firm involved, is now in custody.
Government Response and Investigation
The drug bust has stirred significant public concern, prompting President Joseph Boakai to order a comprehensive investigation by the police and the national anti-drug agency. Boakai stated, “Liberia will not be used as a safe haven, transit point, warehouse, financial centre or operational base by criminal networks engaged in narcotics trafficking.”
