MONROVIA, Liberia — The Joint National Security Investigation Team, under the guidance of the Ministry of Justice, has formally charged Philip Yeoh Jr. in connection with the ongoing investigation into the attempted shipment of more than US$19 million worth of suspected cocaine through the Roberts International Airport (RIA).
Authorities announced Friday that the charges stem from an investigation into six boxes presented for shipment from Liberia to the United Kingdom and declared as general cargo. During security screening and a subsequent physical inspection, officers discovered a white powdery substance suspected to be illicit drugs.
According to investigators, Yeoh Jr., an employee of Global Logistics Services/Menzies, was questioned in the presence of his legal counsel after being informed of his constitutional rights. Investigators allege that after learning of the discovery, he communicated with a co-defendant and participated in efforts to negotiate the release of the consignment.
Based on the evidence gathered, the Joint National Security Investigation Team charged Yeoh Jr. with Criminal Facilitation, Criminal Solicitation, Criminal Conspiracy, and Concealing Property Derived from a Drug Offense under the Revised Penal Law of Liberia and the Amended Controlled Drug and Substance Act of 2023. He has since been forwarded for prosecution before a court of competent jurisdiction.
In a related development, investigators identified George Wha Harris as a person of interest in the case. Authorities said Harris was questioned by the investigation team and later arrested and charged for alleged unruly conduct during the investigation. He has since been released into the custody of his legal representative while the investigation continues.
The Joint National Security Investigation Team emphasized that the charges against Yeoh Jr. and the allegations involving any other individuals remain subject to judicial and investigative processes, stressing that all accused persons are presumed innocent unless proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
Authorities said the investigation remains active and warned that additional individuals could be invited for questioning or charged if evidence establishes a lawful basis. The public was urged to avoid speculation, refrain from circulating unverified information, and rely on official updates from the Joint National Security Investigation Team.
The investigation is part of the government’s ongoing probe into the attempted export of suspected cocaine valued at more than US$19 million through Roberts International Airport.
