President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has pledged to bring everyone linked to the recent seizure of 237.6 kilograms of cocaine at Roberts International Airport (RIA) to justice, warning that Liberia will not become a haven for drug traffickers.
In a national address Tuesday, Boakai described the bust, valued at more than US$19 million, as one of the largest drug seizures in the country’s history.
He said the case underscores the threat posed by transnational criminal networks using West Africa as a transit route for illegal drugs.
“Though I maintain that Liberia is open for business, Liberia is not open for the business of drug trafficking,” the President said.
Boakai said he had directed the National Joint Security, under the authority of the National Security Council, to oversee the investigation. The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) and the Liberia National Police (LNP) are leading the probe with support from other security institutions.
According to the President, the investigation will focus not only on those directly involved in the shipment but also on the network behind it.
“We are not interested only in intercepting drugs or arresting couriers,” Boakai said. “We are determined to expose and dismantle the networks that finance, coordinate, facilitate, and profit from this criminal activity.”
He said no one would be above the law.
“This investigation will follow the evidence wherever it leads. No person will be untouchable. No institution will be shielded from scrutiny. No criminal network will escape justice,” he said.
Boakai also announced that Liberia is working with international law enforcement and security agencies to strengthen intelligence sharing, financial tracking, forensic analysis, and cross-border investigations. He disclosed that a high-level delegation has already been sent to engage key partners and deepen cooperation in identifying those behind the shipment.
While acknowledging public calls for accountability, the President urged Liberians to allow investigators to do their work, warning that premature disclosure of sensitive information could compromise the case and jeopardize prosecutions.
“The Liberian people have every right to expect transparency from their government. However, successful investigations require discipline, professionalism, and the protection of operational information,” he said.
Boakai described the fight against drug trafficking as more than a law enforcement issue, saying it is about protecting the country’s future, safeguarding communities, and preserving the credibility of national institutions.
He called on Liberians to remain calm and patient as the investigation continues.
“Together, with resolve, unity, and determination, we will win this fight,” the President said.
