-Presidential Press Secretary Fofana Says More Arrests, Dismissals and Prosecutions Are Coming; President Declares Anti-Drug Campaign ‘Unending’
MONROVIA, Liberia – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has delivered one of his strongest warnings yet in Liberia’s escalating war against narcotics trafficking, declaring that “no sacred cows” will be spared as authorities intensify investigations into what the government describes as a sophisticated drug cartel operating across state institutions.
Speaking during the Executive Mansion’s regular press briefing on Friday, July 31st, Presidential Press Secretary Kula Bonah Nyei Fofana said the President has instructed security agencies to relentlessly pursue everyone linked to the country’s recent multi-million-dollar cocaine seizures, regardless of rank, political affiliation or public office.
“The President is very clear,” Fofana said. “Whoever you are, wherever you find yourself—whether you are in the highest echelon of government—once investigations establish that you contributed in any way to the drug trade, whether by providing access, facilitating passage or playing any supporting role, you will be held liable.”
The remarks come just hours after President Boakai dismissed, suspended and ordered investigations into several senior security officials over their alleged connection to the ongoing investigation into the country’s largest cocaine seizures, including the recent US$317.7 million cocaine bust and the earlier US$19.2 million drug interception at Roberts International Airport.
‘The Investigation Is Still Active’
Fofana stressed that the government’s investigation remains far from over, warning that additional arrests and administrative actions are expected.
“What I want to let all of you know is that the investigation is still ongoing. It’s very active,” she said.
“So whoever you are—whether you’re in this administration, previous administrations, or just an ordinary citizen—the team will go after you wherever you are.”
She emphasized that the President remains uncompromising in his determination to dismantle the drug network.
“The President wants us to re-emphasize that this drug war is unending. He will do everything possible to get to the very end of it.”
Dismissed Officials Face Criminal Investigation
Responding to questions from journalists, Fofana disclosed that officials recently removed from their positions are not simply leaving public office but are being forwarded to the Ministry of Justice for possible prosecution.
According to her, dismissal represents only the first phase of the legal process.
“If your name was listed, it is automatic that the security team will pull you in for further investigation and onward prosecution,” she explained, adding that additional names are likely to emerge as investigators continue their work.
Government Defends Joint Investigation
The Presidential Press Secretary also addressed public concerns over why the Liberia National Police (LNP), rather than the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), has been leading public updates on the investigation.
She explained that the probe is being coordinated jointly by the Ministry of Justice, Liberia National Police, National Security Agency (NSA) and the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), with the LNP serving as the principal investigative body responsible for communicating developments.
“This is a criminal investigation,” she said. “The LNP is leading the investigative component, working in coordination with the LDEA, NSA and the Ministry of Justice. Everybody will not hold separate press conferences on the same matter.”
Government Explains Burning of Seized Drugs
Fofana also defended the controversial destruction of seized narcotics while investigations remain active.
She said all legal procedures were followed before the drugs were incinerated, noting that investigators preserved representative samples that can later be produced in court as evidence.
According to her, Liberia currently lacks the capacity to safely store such large quantities of dangerous narcotics indefinitely.
“The procedures were followed to the letter,” she maintained, adding that the President personally approved the destruction after receiving security briefings.
President Highlights Broader Governance Agenda
Beyond the anti-drug campaign, Fofana used the briefing to review a series of recent presidential engagements, including Liberia’s 179th Independence Anniversary celebrations in Grand Bassa County.
She said President Boakai was particularly impressed by the unity displayed during the celebrations and praised Grand Bassa residents for successfully hosting the national event.
The President also commended Independence Day Orator Herbert Brewer, describing his address as a powerful historical lesson that should encourage Liberians to preserve and reinterpret their national history.
She disclosed that the President intends to advance a national history initiative recommended by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, arguing that Liberians themselves must remain at the center of documenting and preserving the country’s history.
Roads, Investment and Jobs
Fofana also highlighted the President’s recent development activities, including the commissioning of the Banga–Salayea Road, groundbreaking ceremonies for additional highway projects toward Konia and Zorzor, and the official launch of First Atlantic Bank Liberia.
According to her, the arrival of another international financial institution demonstrates growing investor confidence in Liberia’s economy.
“The fact that international banks are coming to Liberia shows that the environment is becoming conducive for business,” she said, urging investors to take advantage of opportunities within the country.
President Addresses Content Creators’ Concerns
Responding to public reactions surrounding President Boakai’s recent recognition of Ghanaian YouTuber Wode Maya, Fofana rejected suggestions that Liberian content creators were being overlooked.
She noted that Liberian creative entrepreneur Jenkins Hoomor played a central role in organizing Wode Maya’s visit and emphasized that the President has already appointed national ambassadors for entertainment and visual arts to support the country’s creative industry.
“The President loves the creative industries,” she said, encouraging Liberian content creators to continue showcasing the country’s positive stories and engage government institutions with innovative ideas.
University of Liberia Situation Under Review
Fofana also confirmed that President Boakai has been briefed on the recent vote of no confidence by the University of Liberia Faculty and Staff Association against the university’s leadership.
She disclosed that the President’s team is reviewing the matter and indicated that further action could follow.
“The President is concerned,” she said, noting that Boakai has consistently opposed prolonged closures of hospitals and educational institutions because of their impact on ordinary Liberians.
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