Liberia Drug Case Claims U.S. Attention

The embassy’s renewed commitment, one critic said, comes at a time when many Liberians remain skeptical about the progress of investigations into the June 8 drug seized, value approximately at US$19.2 million.

The June 8 drug interception at the Roberts International Airport (RIA) has claimed the attention of the United States Government.

As such, the US Embassy near Monrovia has recommitted itself to work closely with the Liberian government to strengthen the rule of law and hold transnational criminal networks accountable.

The assurance, came as public concerns continue to mount over the poor handling of the cocaine seizure at the airport.

On that development, U.S. Chargé Affairs, Joe Zadrozny met with the Minister of Justice, N. Oswald Tweh.

The two officials discussed ongoing cooperation between the United States, and Liberia on to combat organized crime and improve the justice system.

According to the embassy, the discussions focused on strengthening collaboration in the fight against transnational criminal activities, including drug trafficking, financial crimes and other illicit networks operating within the region.

Zadrozny reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to support Liberia’s justice sector as it works to dismantle criminal organizations, prosecute offenders, and protect Liberian communities from the devastating effects of narcotics trafficking and related financial crimes.

The embassy noted that the U.S. government, through the Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics, and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), has continued to provide technical and financial assistance to the Ministry of Justice.

The embassy support has focused on combating trafficking in persons, reducing drug demand, strengthening counter narcotics operations, and improving the effectiveness of law enforcement institutions.

U.S. Government values its longstanding partnership with the Ministry of Justice, and therefore, looks forward to continue collaboration aimed at advancing justice, security and the rule of law.

The latest statement from the U.S. Embassy is expected to intensify public expectations that Liberia’s justice system with international support.

The statement noted that United States Government will pursue all those responsible for drug trafficking regardless of their status or political influence, as the country seeks to restore confidence in the fight against organized crime.

The embassy’s renewed commitment comes at a time when many Liberians remain skeptical about the progress of investigations into the June 8 seizure of approximately US$19.2 million worth of cocaine at the Roberts International Airport.

Public confidence in the investigation has continued to weaken, with many citizens alleging that the case has moved slowly, “because influential individuals may be connected to the trafficking network.”

Although, authorities have filed charges against several suspects, critics argue that the investigation has yet to expose the masterminds behind the operation.

Some Liberians believe that while lower-level suspects have been arrested, those believed to have financed, or coordinated the trafficking operation have not been held accountable, fueling demands for greater transparency and impartiality.

Several drug users have argued that law enforcement efforts have focused disproportionately on consumers, rather than the individuals responsible for importing and distributing illegal narcotics.

“We are not the real problem. The people bringing the drugs are the ones destroying communities. They should be the main target of government’s investigation.”

Jerry Richard, a high school graduate, said, many of his friends have served prison sentences for drug use while those responsible for importing large quantities of narcotics remain beyond the reach of the law.