GBARNGA- A soldier of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) is being held at the Gbarnga Central Prison following his arrest over the alleged possession and transportation of a large quantity of Tramadol reportedly valued at nearly US$10,000.
Bong County Attorney Cllr. Jonathan Flomo confirmed the detention to Verity News, identifying the soldier as Sergeant Peter Sergio Tycrane Coleman.
Flomo said Coleman, during his initial statement to investigators, claimed that he was offered L$60,000 to transport the drugs. The county attorney did not provide further details about who allegedly offered him the money.
According to Flomo, Coleman remains at the Gbarnga Central Prison because the alleged offense occurred in Bong County. He is expected to appear before the court in connection with the case.
The detention follows the discovery of the quantity of Tramadol, which authorities reportedly valued at nearly US$10,000. Details surrounding where the drugs were seized and how Coleman was arrested were not immediately available.
Verity News has also confirmed that Coleman has reportedly been dismissed from the Armed Forces of Liberia as the authorities continue their investigation into the allegations.
The case comes as Liberian authorities continue efforts to investigate and prosecute the illegal movement and distribution of controlled drugs. Coleman’s statement that he was paid to transport the drugs is expected to form part of the investigation.
Coleman has not been convicted of any offense. The allegations against him will have to be tested before a court, where he will have an opportunity to respond to the charges.
