In Liberia's US$317 Million Cocaine Bust: Deputy Police Commissioner Dismissed Over Bribe Scandal

Monrovia, Liberia:The Liberia National Police (LNP) has relieved Deputy Commissioner for Crime Services Johnny Dean from his post over allegations that he received a bribe to facilite a massive cocaine worth US$317.68 million, which was seized along the Roberts International Airport in Duazon.

Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, July 23, 2026, in Monrovia, Police Inspector General Gregory O. W. Coleman announced that Dean was dismissed after investigators found that he reportedly compromised the integrity of the ongoing investigation by providing assistance and comfort to suspects already in police custody.

"Although he was not involved in the trafficking operation, the investigation established that his actions compromised the integrity of the process," Inspector General Coleman declared.

Coleman disclosed that Dean admitted receiving US$10,000 in connection with the case, a revelation that has intensified public concern over the conduct of senior law enforcement officials in one of Liberia's largest anti-drug operations.

The Inspector General clarified that while Dean has not been implicated in the actual trafficking of the cocaine, his alleged actions during the investigation were serious enough to warrant his immediate removal from office pending further inquiries.

"No law enforcement officer will be shielded from accountability. We will follow the evidence wherever it leads," Coleman emphasized, warning that the police administration would not protect anyone found violating the law, regardless of rank or position.

Coleman announced that Dean has been interdicted and referred to the Professional Standards Division for an administrative investigation, adding that criminal charges could follow if investigators establish sufficient evidence to support prosecution.

To ensure uninterrupted police operations, the Inspector General said the Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence and Criminal Investigation has been assigned to oversee the Crime Services Department in an acting capacity while the investigation continues. He further warned that anyone linked to the cocaine case would face arrest and prosecution under Liberian law.

The Police Chief also revealed the enormous scale of the drug seizure, stating that the confiscated cocaine has an estimated street value of US$317.68 million, with its value potentially rising to nearly US$400 million after distribution. He reaffirmed the LNP's commitment to a transparent and impartial investigation, stressing that the case would be pursued strictly on the basis of facts and evidence, free from influence or interference.