Exiled Liberian activist Martin K. N. Kollie has welcomed President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s reported dismissal of Fitzgerald T. M. Biago as head of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) and his indefinite suspension as Deputy Commissioner of Police.
Kollie described the action as a demonstration of leadership and a signal of “zero tolerance” for drug trafficking and impunity.
He reiterated allegations that Biago received a grey Toyota Hilux pickup allegedly linked to a drug cartel. Kollie stressed that his allegations did not accuse Biago of directly trafficking narcotics, but of allegedly accepting gifts intended to influence, facilitate or protect drug trafficking activities.
Kollie also challenged Justice Minister Oswald Tweh’s characterization of the investigative findings as involving “ethical concerns,” arguing that the alleged receipt of the vehicle could raise questions under Liberia’s anti-drug, Code of Conduct and Penal laws.
He cited provisions dealing with receiving property derived from drugs, gifts and bribes, conflict of interest, use of public office for private interests, criminal facilitation, solicitation and conspiracy.
According to Kollie, the issue should therefore be treated as more than an ethical matter and warrants transparency and accountability.
He further alleged that drug trafficking networks have infiltrated Liberia’s national security institutions, particularly the LDEA and Liberia National Police.
Kollie praised President Boakai for what he called a swift response and urged continued action against drug traffickers and transnational criminal networks.
He also appealed for stronger protection of Liberian youths and families affected by drug abuse.
The allegations against Biago remain subject to appropriate legal and investigative processes, and no criminal conviction against him has been established in the statement.
