By Korhai (Pen Name)
Dismissed Police Commissioner Johnny Bolar Dean could soon face prosecution in connection with Liberia’s US$317 million drug case, while former Roberts International Airport Deputy Managing Director Mark Egon Kuiah remains free despite being named as a person of interest.
The Liberia National Police says Dean’s case is nearing the point of being sent to court.
LNP spokesman Deputy Commissioner of Police Sam Collins made the disclosure Thursday, September 3, during an interview on OK FM’s Legal Hour program.
Collins said Dean could be forwarded to court “anytime soon.”
“The investigation is almost at its concluding stage,” Collins said.
Dean, a former senior police officer, has reportedly admitted receiving US$10,000 from individuals linked to the alleged drug operation. The money was allegedly given in exchange for “special treatment,” according to accounts surrounding the case.
Dean has remained out of prison since June 9, 2026.
Kuiah, who served as Deputy Managing Director for Operations at Roberts International Airport, has also been identified as a person of interest.
President Joseph Nyumah Boakai dismissed both men from government on July 31 following developments surrounding the alleged drug operation.
Kuiah has also been linked to the IB Atlantic IV Maroni, a Comoros-flagged vessel that later drew attention in connection with the case.
On July 13, Kuiah reportedly wrote authorities seeking authorization for the vessel to berth or operate within Liberia’s territorial waters and exclusive economic zone.
The circumstances surrounding that request, including what Kuiah knew about the vessel at the time, remain unclear.
The continued freedom of the two former officials has drawn comparisons with other suspects in the wider case who have been arrested, charged or taken to court.
While police have indicated that Dean may soon face prosecution, authorities have not publicly stated whether Kuiah will be charged.
The allegations against both men have not been proven in court. They remain entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence unless a competent court determines otherwise.
The focus now is whether Dean’s case will proceed to court and what action authorities will take regarding Kuiah.
