–ANC Political Leader Says Public Confidence in Government Probe Has Eroded, Urges ECOWAS, Mano River Union and International Partners to Help Ensure Independent Investigation
MONROVIA – Alternative National Congress (ANC) Political Leader Alexander Benedict Cummings on Monday intensified pressure on the Unity Party-led government over the ongoing investigation into the seizure of cocaine valued at approximately US$19.2 million, calling for an internationally backed probe and accusing the administration of failing to conduct a transparent, credible and independent investigation.
Speaking at a press conference in Monrovia, Cummings said the Government’s handling of the case has raised more questions than answers, arguing that public confidence in the investigation has steadily diminished more than a month after authorities intercepted 198 compressed plates of high-grade cocaine at the Roberts International Airport (RIA).
The ANC leader said while the Boakai administration initially promised a swift, transparent and uncompromising investigation, Liberians have instead witnessed what he described as a slow, secretive and compromised process.
“We have called this press conference because what we see unfolding is a serious and grave threat to our country and its citizens,” Cummings declared, adding that the Government has yet to explain how such a large quantity of cocaine entered Liberia, who orchestrated the trafficking operation, or where the shipment originated.
Calls for Independent International Assistance
Cummings reiterated his longstanding call for an independent investigation, saying the magnitude of the case requires technical support and oversight beyond Liberia’s domestic institutions.
He announced that he would seek the involvement of Liberia’s international partners to help investigate and audit the handling of the June 8 drug seizure, arguing that the Government has failed to inspire public confidence in its ability to impartially investigate the matter.
“I will be leading the charge to encourage my friends in the international community to investigate, preserve and audit the process surrounding the June 8, 2026, US$19.2 million drug bust,” Cummings said.
He further urged the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Mano River Union to activate regional early warning mechanisms and support efforts to ensure that everyone connected to the alleged trafficking operation is investigated and, where appropriate, prosecuted.
Questions Over the Investigation
During the press conference, Cummings questioned why the investigation has largely resulted in charges against what he characterized as lower-level suspects while, in his view, failing to identify those who may have financed or coordinated the operation.
He also referenced testimony presented before the Liberian Senate regarding one of the suspects, Michael Brown, alias “U.S. Marshall,” expressing concern over reports that the suspect allegedly left prison and remains unaccounted for. Cummings argued that such developments have further undermined public confidence in the investigation.
The ANC leader also questioned how such a significant quantity of cocaine could have entered the country without the knowledge or involvement of influential individuals, while stressing that those responsible should be investigated regardless of their political status or public office.
Drug Trafficking a National Security Threat
Beyond the investigation itself, Cummings warned that drug trafficking poses a broader threat to Liberia’s national security, governance and economic future.
He said the proliferation of illicit drugs is destroying communities, fueling crime and placing increasing numbers of young Liberians at risk.
Citing figures attributed to the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), Cummings said there are hundreds of drug “ghettos” operating in and around Monrovia, a development he described as evidence that Liberia’s drug crisis continues to worsen despite the Government declaring narcotics a national emergency.
“If we fail to act decisively, we risk eroding investor confidence and damaging Liberia’s reputation among our international partners at a time when we desperately need their trust, investment and cooperation,” he warned.
Criticism of Government’s Anti-Drug Campaign
Cummings also criticized what he described as selective enforcement of Liberia’s anti-drug laws.
He argued that while law enforcement agencies frequently publicize arrests of alleged low-level offenders, the investigation into the country’s largest recent cocaine seizure has progressed slowly and without sufficient public disclosure.
“This selective justice must end,” he said, maintaining that every individual connected to the alleged trafficking network should be investigated regardless of position, influence or political affiliation.
Background
The cocaine seizure, announced by the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency and other security agencies in June, has become one of the country’s largest narcotics cases in recent years.
Since then, the investigation has attracted widespread public attention, prompting hearings in the Liberian Senate, calls from civil society organizations for transparency, and demands from political stakeholders for a thorough and impartial investigation.
The Boakai administration has repeatedly maintained that no one will be shielded from the investigation. President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has publicly declared zero tolerance for drug trafficking, insisting that “nobody will be spared,” while Information Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah has challenged anyone with credible evidence linking senior government officials to the case to provide that information to both Liberian authorities and international investigative partners.
The Government has also emphasized that the investigation remains active and that additional arrests and prosecutions will be guided by evidence rather than speculation.
A Renewed Political Debate
Cummings’ latest intervention is expected to intensify political debate surrounding the high-profile drug case as public attention remains focused on the outcome of the investigation.
While the Government insists the process is proceeding professionally and without interference, the ANC leader maintains that only an independent investigation supported by international partners can restore public confidence and ensure full accountability.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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