FIA Launches Major Corruption Probe Into Monrovia City Corporation

By Amos Harris

Monrovia, Liberia – The Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA) has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) following credible intelligence of what it describes as “serious and widespread corruption” within the municipal entity. This far-reaching probe, disclosed by FIA Director Mohammed A. Nessaer in Monrovia, casts a shadow over the administration of Monrovia City Mayor John Charuk Siafa.

Director Nessaer revealed that the investigation stems from a litany of alleged irregularities, including unauthorized salary deductions from employees, the circulation of fake taxpayer receipts, and the alarming presence of “ghost employees” on the municipal payroll. The FIA’s intelligence also points to suspicions of duplicated names within payroll records, strongly suggesting a deliberate manipulation of the city’s financial systems for illicit gain.

In a formal communication to Mayor Siafa, the FIA has demanded a wide array of critical documents to facilitate its investigation. These include:

Payroll records from the Ministry of Finance for MCC: Specifically from March 2024 to the present.

Payroll submissions sent to the Civil Service Agency: To cross-reference and verify employee data.

Comprehensive banking information for all MCC accounts: To track financial flows and identify any suspicious transactions.

Copies of all taxpayer receipts issued since January 2025: To ascertain the legitimacy of revenue collection.

Internal investigation reports from within MCC: To understand any prior attempts at addressing or concealing financial misconduct.

E-payment platform records linked to MCC activities: To scrutinize digital financial transactions.

Any other payroll-related documentation relevant to the probe: Allowing for a thorough and unhindered examination.

Director Nessaer underscored the urgency of the matter, expressing his expectation that Mayor Siafa will provide full cooperation by promptly submitting all requested documents. The FIA’s commitment to upholding financial accountability across all public institutions was reiterated, with Nessaer pledging transparency and a commitment to keeping the public informed as the investigation progresses.