Biago's Fate at LDEA Lies in Limbo

Monrovia, Liberia: Every second that hits, it draws down on a 48-hour ultimatum set to produce findings into allegations linking recused Officer-in-Charge of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), Fitzgerald Biago, to receiving bribes and providing a cover-up in Liberia's largest-ever drug busts.

By: Contributing Writer, Melvin Vakum

The allegations stemmed from social media reports that Biago was gifted a vehicle and a certain amount of money by an unidentified drug cartel, and facilitated the US$317.68 million worth of cocaine that was recently seized in the country.

The vehicle identified to be a "drey pickup" with plate number "A532084" has been reportedly seen in the convoy of the LDEA Chief.

However, Fitzgerald Biago dismissed any link with a drug cartel or receiving bribes, but has recused himself from active duty as Officer-in-Charge of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency, citing a need to undergo investigation and protect the integrity of the Agency.

Following his recusal on Saturday, August 8, 2026, President Joseph Boakai has ordered the Ministry of Justice to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the matter to be finalized in 48-hours.

The investigation which took immediate effect on Saturday, August 8, will determine Biago's stay or dismissal from the LDEA based on its findings.

Pundits believe though yet to be proven, the allegations stigmatize Agency and narrow Biago's way back to the LDEA as President Boakai in recent years has taken decisive steps at the institution in revamping the leadership structure.

"Upon receipt of the investigation report, the President will carefully review its findings and determine the appropriate course of action in the best interest of justice, accountability, and the people of Liberia", an Executive Mansion release said.

Meanwhile, the Liberian leader reaffirmed his administration's commitment to the fight against illicit drugs.

Boakai emphasized the consequences drug activities have on the nation, including putting the youth future at risk, and said no one is above law to face justice. 

"This move, he noted, is aimed at preserving the utmost integrity, transparency, and public trust of the national anti-drug campaign and to ensure an unhindered, credible administrative and security investigation", he noted.

The US$137.68 million worth of cocaine which reports have allegedly linked Biago to facilitating, was confiscated early July 2026, in Duazon, Margibi County, following intelligence received by Liberia's joint security forces.

Security authorities said two foreign nationals were apprehended on the scene and are currently facing prosecution. The bust was discovered a few weeks earlier after a US$19.2 million worth of cocaine was seized at the Roberts International Airport (RIA).

Authorities say the consignments were shipped into Liberia, claiming that international drug trafficking networks are using the country as a transit point.

The investigation is being overseen by the Liberia National Police, the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency, the Liberia Immigration Service, the National Security Agency and the Ministry of Justice.

Prominent citizens as well as civil society advocates have since called for an international independent investigation, as some believe the security sector may have been compromised.