The Asset Recovery and Property Retrieval Taskforce (AREPT) has strongly condemned and rejected a Christmas and New Year gift card sent to its office by the Modern Development and Management Cooperation (MDMC), a company currently under indictment for alleged corruption.
In a press statement released Thursday, AREPT described the gesture as improper, unethical, and a potential attempt to induce or influence the Taskforce while MDMC’s case remains before the courts.
The Taskforce expressed shock at the action, noting that since its establishment nearly two years ago, it has never received gifts, cards, or seasonal greetings from any institution under investigation or indictment.
According to AREPT, the gift was sent through MDMC’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. John S. Youboty Sr., who is himself facing corruption-related charges.
The Taskforce stated that such conduct undermines the integrity of the judicial process and violates basic principles of accountability.
“AREPT considers this action an improper and unacceptable attempt at inducement and an effort to establish cordiality with an accused institution whose case is pending judicial determination,” the statement said.
The Taskforce confirmed that the gift card has been formally returned to MDMC.
In addition, the company has been issued a 72-hour ultimatum to provide reasons for what AREPT termed a violation, especially while company officials remain indicted and are awaiting court proceedings.
Reiterating its position, AREPT emphasized that it is not in the business of receiving gifts from the public, particularly from parties under investigation or indictment. Any such gestures, the Taskforce warned, will be treated as attempts at inducement and will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
“AREPT was not established to exchange pleasantries or receive seasonal gestures,” the statement noted.
“Its sole mandate is to investigate, prosecute, and recover public assets stolen or unlawfully acquired, in strict accordance with the laws of Liberia.”
The Taskforce further issued a final warning to MDMC, all indicted individuals and institutions, those under investigation, and the general public that any future attempts to offer gifts, cards, or inducements to AREPT or its officials will result in immediate legal action.
AREPT concluded by reaffirming its independence and commitment to carrying out its mandate in the best interest of the Liberian people.
The statement was signed by Joseph F. Daniels, Public Relations Officer of AREPT.
