IG Coleman: Suspects to Be Charged Soon in US$19 Million Drug Case

Capitol Hill Liberia, Liberia National Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman says investigators have made major progress in the reported US$19 million drug seizure case, revealing that several persons of interest have now become potential suspects and could face criminal charges within days.

Appearing before the Liberian Senate on Tuesday, Coleman said the investigation has reached a critical stage but cautioned against disclosing sensitive information that could undermine ongoing efforts.

“There are things that we’re still working on that are not yet declassified, and discussing them now would compromise everything,” Coleman told senators. He urged lawmakers to raise specific questions instead of seeking information that could affect the investigation.

According to the Police Inspector General, investigators are reviewing documentary and forensic evidence while working with international partners to strengthen the case. He acknowledged that Liberia does not have all the technical capacity required for such a complex investigation and is relying on external assistance where necessary.

Coleman assured the Senate that investigators are withholding information only to protect the integrity of the investigation, not to conceal facts. “We have made significant progress. We have institutions under suspicion, and we have persons under suspicion at this point in time who will be charged within the coming days,” he said, adding that the outcome of the case is important to Liberia’s future.

The Senate hearing follows growing public concern over the pace of the investigation into the reported seizure of 237.6 kilograms of cocaine, valued at approximately US$19 million, at Roberts International Airport (RIA) earlier this month. The case has led to the questioning and arrest of several individuals connected to airport cargo handling and security operations, while authorities have also identified a number of institutions as part of the ongoing investigation.

The investigation, being conducted by a Joint Security Task Force comprising the Liberia National Police, the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency, the Ministry of Justice and other state security agencies, remains one of the country’s biggest anti-drug operations in recent years. The government has repeatedly pledged that everyone found responsible, regardless of position or affiliation, will face the full weight of the law.