The Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) has discharged SGT (PO2) Gayflor Z. Dardu, a member of the Liberia Coast Guard, following his involvement in fraudulent financial activities that defrauded several AFL personnel of more than one hundred thousand United States dollars (US $100,000).
SGT Dardu, who enlisted in 2007 with Class 3, was known for his many years of dedicated service to the AFL.
During his tenure, he benefitted from the AFL’s Professional Development Program, which saw him trained as a magistrate at the James A.A. Pear Judicial Institute.
Additionally, he was sponsored by the Ministry of National Defense/AFL to study at the prestigious Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law.
Despite these opportunities, SGT (PO2) Dardu was found guilty of engaging in fraudulent activities, which violated the trust placed in him by his fellow service members and the institution.
After an investigation conducted by the AFL Disciplinary Board, Dardu was charged with violating Article 92 (Failure to Obey Lawful Orders) and Article 134 (Debt, Dishonorably Failing to Pay) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).
The board’s findings revealed that Dardu was unable to repay the defrauded amount despite multiple efforts by the AFL to recover the funds.
According to an AFL release issued on Friday, August 2, 2024, disclosed that his actions were deemed a violation of AFL policies, regulations, and the UCMJ.
The release further revealed that as a result of Dardu’s actions, the AFL High Command took the decision to discharge him for “the good of the service and conduct not in keeping with AFL standards,” in accordance with the National Defense Act of 2008, Chapter 7, Section 7.7(j).
The discharge of SGT (PO2) Dardu underscores the AFL’s commitment to maintaining a professional military where the rule of law is paramount.
The High Command has reassured the public of its ongoing efforts to uphold discipline, integrity, and professionalism within the ranks of the Armed Forces of Liberia.
This move is seen as a clear message that the AFL will not tolerate any actions that undermine its values or the trust of the Liberian people.