Paul J. King Turns Himself In as Investigators Intensify Probe into US$19.2 Million Cocaine Seizure at RIA

Monrovia, Liberia: Paul J. King, General Manager of GLS Menzies Liberia and a key person of interest in the ongoing investigation into the massive cocaine seizure at Roberts International Airport (RIA), has voluntarily surrendered to Liberian authorities for questioning.

The Ministry of Justice confirmed that King presented himself to members of the Joint National Security Investigative Task Force on June 21, following days of public scrutiny surrounding the June 8 interception of approximately 237.6 kilograms of cocaine, a shipment authorities estimate to be worth about US$19.2 million on the international market.

According to the Ministry, King is currently being held under the supervision of the joint security team as investigators work to determine how the narcotics entered the country, who facilitated its movement, and whether a wider criminal network was involved in the operation.

Officials say King’s appearance before investigators forms part of efforts to establish the full chain of responsibility behind what has become one of Liberia’s most significant drug trafficking investigations in recent years. Security agencies are examining the roles of individuals and institutions connected to the shipment as they seek to uncover the source, intended destination, and possible accomplices linked to the case.

The Ministry of Justice emphasized that King’s cooperation with investigators should not be interpreted as an admission of guilt. It noted that he remains entitled to all constitutional and legal protections, including access to legal counsel, due process, and humane treatment while the investigation proceeds.

Authorities have meanwhile renewed their appeal for other persons identified as relevant to the investigation to voluntarily report to law enforcement agencies. The government says it remains committed to ensuring a transparent investigation and holding accountable anyone found to have participated in the attempted trafficking of the cocaine shipment.

The June 8 seizure has drawn widespread public attention and renewed concerns about Liberia’s vulnerability to international drug trafficking networks, with security agencies under increasing pressure to identify all individuals connected to the operation.