Inspector General (IG) Gregory W. Coleman, on Thursday, July 23, dismissed the Chief of Intelligence ‘106’ Johnny Bolar Dean, over allegations that he accepted a US$10,000 bribe to provide favorable treatment to two suspected drug traffickers being held at the Police Headquarters in Monrovia.
The situation emerged in a dramatic development that underscored Liberia National Police (LNP) ongoing crackdown on corruption within its ranks.
Coleman revealed how Dean, admitted taking US$10, 000 bribe from the drugs dealers to do a cover up for them.
As he announced the decision on Thursday, Coleman said, Dean was immediately relieved of his duties, and has with immediate effect, been replaced by the Deputy Police Commissioner for Interpol Intelligence and Investigation.
He disclosed how Dean has also been turned over to the Police Professional Standards Division for a full investigation into the allegations.
According to IG Coleman, the alleged bribery occurred while the two suspects were under police custody as part of an ongoing narcotics investigation.
He urged Police administration not tolerate any officer using his, or her position, to undermine criminal investigations, or compromise the integrity of law enforcement.
“This is a clear warning to all senior officers, who think they can use their positions to jeopardize investigations. Anyone who engages in unethical conduct, or attempts to bring this government into public disrepute will face the full weight of the law.”
IG Coleman reaffirmed Police’s commitment to pursue every lead in the case, regardless of who may be implicated.
“The Liberia National Police stands prepared to follow every piece of evidence wherever it leads. This is the people’s Police, serving the people’s government. We want to assure Liberians that we will go beyond every investigation to ensure that whoever commits a crime is prosecuted in accordance with the law.”
The latest action comes amid heightened public scrutiny of the security institutions following several high-profile drugs trafficking cases, including the recent seizure of a massive cocaine shipment in Duazon, Margibi County.
Authorities have repeatedly pledged that no individual, regardless of rank or influence, will be shielded from accountability.
Coleman confirmed how Dean has already admitted to taking bribery of US$10,000, and that the Police Professional Standards Division, is expected to commence its investigation into Dean’s alleged conduct.
As investigation continues, 106 Dean is in the hands of the Police providing more details to the drugs hazard.
Investigation continues.
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