LNP Dismisses Police Academy Commandant Over Alleged Contract Bribery Scheme

Monrovia, Liberia: The Liberia National Police (LNP) has relieved Commissioner of Police Saymor K. Mulbah of his duties as Commandant of the Liberia National Police Academy and Training School following allegations that he fraudulently obtained money from a businessman by promising to secure a supply contract for the academy.

According to a dismissal letter obtained by The Liberian Investigator, Mulbah’s removal took effect on July 20. The decision was based on findings of alleged misconduct and poor performance in line with the LNP’s Administrative Instructions on Discipline and Professional Standards.

The dismissal letter alleges that Mulbah collected money from businessman Khalil Fawaz while claiming he could facilitate the award of a contract to provide food, uniforms, and other training materials to the police academy.

Although the allegation involves Khalil Fawaz, the letter does not accuse him or any member of the Fawaz family of wrongdoing. The businessman is identified only as the individual from whom the money was allegedly solicited.

In addition to his dismissal, Mulbah has been directed to report to the LNP’s Crime Services Department for a criminal investigation, raising the possibility of further legal action if sufficient evidence is established.

Police authorities also ordered him to hand over all government-issued property, including his uniforms, identification card, badges, boots, and other official equipment. He was further instructed to stop presenting himself as a member of the Liberia National Police.

The dismissal letter was signed by Deputy Commissioner of Police Fitzgerald T. M. Biago, head of the Human Resource Management Division, and copied to several departments within the police, including the Legal Affairs and Internal Audit divisions.

Before his dismissal, Mulbah headed the police academy in Paynesville, where new recruits and serving officers receive professional and specialized training. He was last seen publicly representing the institution during the opening of a police instructors’ training program held in partnership with an international organization.

Attempts to obtain comments from Mulbah were unsuccessful. The Liberia National Police has also not publicly stated whether the criminal investigation is underway or if the matter has been forwarded for prosecution. Efforts to reach Khalil Fawaz for comment were also unsuccessful.