Authorities at the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) have immediate effect, ordered the suspension of the Assistant Director of Prisons for Operations, Lawrence Bohlen.
Bohlen’s suspension, according to a release, followed the emergence of a leaked audio recording that is currently under official review.
Preliminary findings suggest discrepancies related to a donation of 100 bags of 25kg rice made by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to the Monrovia Central Prison (MCP) as a Christmas “goodwill gesture.” While official records indicate that the full quantity was delivered, only 75 bags have so far been accounted for, leaving 25 bags unaccounted for.
In keeping with government’s commitment to accountability and transparency, MoJ has constituted a special investigative panel to thoroughly examine the matter.
The panel is chaired by the Chairman of the Independent Parole Board, Stanley Cooper, and is mandated to conduct a comprehensive investigation.
The panel is expected to submit its findings and recommendations within two weeks.
MoJ reaffirms its unwavering commitment to safeguarding public resources, and ensuring that all donations intended for inmates are properly received, managed, and utilized for the intended purpose.
The Ministry has meanwhile, has assured the public of appropriate administrative and legal actions to be taken upon the conclusion of the investigation.