Paul J. King, the Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of cargo handling firm GLS Menzies, has voluntarily surrendered to national authorities.
Investigators said, King surrendered is a major breakthrough in the investigation into the narcotics bust.
The Ministry of Justice meanwhile, confirmed on Sunday, June 21, that King, who had been actively sought by security forces, is now in the “custody of the Joint National Security Investigative Taskforce.”
King’s surrender comes just days after Justice Minister N. Oswald Tweh, held an “emergency” press conference.
Tweh named 10 “key persons of interest” he claimed are tied to the June 8, 2026, interception of 237.6 kilograms of cocaine at the Roberts International Airport (RIA).
The cocaine valued at US$19 million, or L$3,6 billion.
The illegal substances were valued at over US$19 million in European market.
Earlier, reports emerged that the compressed plates of the cocaine were discovered hidden inside six cargo boxes being processed for export to Europe via Brussels Airlines.
In its latest statement, the Ministry of Justice revealed how King is being held under joint security supervision, and is “cooperating with investigators” to map out the full chain of criminal responsibility. Officials expect his insights to help dismantle the network responsible for the importation, concealment, transportation, and attempted exportation of the drug shipment.
Until Sunday, King was one of three high-profile individuals listed as being “at large” following a preliminary multi-agency sweep.
The Justice Ministry’s previous statement identified an ‘extensive list’ of airport, and logistics personnel allegedly connected to the handling chain of the illicit cargo, which was discovered at a GLS Menzies warehouse.
While King’s surrender is being hailed by the government as a positive step toward accountability, the Ministry of Justice emphasized that his cooperation does not equate to a declaration of guilt.
“Consistent with the constitution and laws, King will be afforded all protections guaranteed to persons in custody, including the right to due process, access to legal counsel, and protection from intimidation.”
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, has vowed to expand the probe past low-level couriers to root out the international masterminds financing the operation.
Following King’s detention, the Ministry of Justice renewed its ultimatum to the remaining individuals evading authorities; most notably Oscar Browne and Emmanuel T. Zeon.
The Ministry has urged the pair to immediately turn themselves in for questioning.
“National and international efforts to locate and apprehend all outstanding individuals connected to this matter remain ongoing,” the Ministry warned, adding: time will not diminish the reach of the law.”
Source: Ablee-Jay Staff