By Rufus Divine Brooks Jr.
The Ministry of Labor has terminated the employment of Inspector Matthew Johns following an internal investigation that found him responsible for fraudulent activities involving the issuance of work and residence permits.
Labor Minister Cooper W. Kruah announced the decision during a press briefing on Monday, December 29, 2025, stating that the inspector exploited his official position for personal gain, in violation of the ministry’s ethical and professional standards.
According to Minister Kruah, Johns confessed to collecting approximately US$1,000 from several Indian nationals in exchange for providing counterfeit receipts and unauthorized permit documents over the course of the past year.
“This behavior represents a grave abuse of public trust and undermines the integrity of our labor administration system,” Kruah said, emphasizing that such conduct will not be tolerated.
Although the minister did not specify the exact number of victims, he confirmed that multiple foreign nationals seeking work and residency authorization were affected by the scheme.
The dismissal follows a months-long internal probe initiated after reports of corruption emerged within the permit processing unit. Kruah described the action as a strong signal to all public employees that misconduct carries serious consequences.
“This decision sends a clear message that wrongdoing will be addressed decisively,” he said.
The minister further disclosed that the former inspector has been referred to the Liberia National Police for further investigation and possible criminal prosecution.
Reaffirming the ministry’s zero-tolerance policy on corruption, Kruah warned that any employee found engaging in fraudulent or unethical practices will face immediate dismissal and legal action.
The case forms part of broader government efforts to curb corruption, reinforce accountability, and restore public confidence in state institutions.
