By James T. Brooks
MONROVIA – Liberian authorities have publicly named 10 individuals as persons of interest following the seizure of more than US$19 million worth of cocaine at Roberts International Airport. With three of the suspects still at large, the government is widening its investigation into what it describes as a potentially far-reaching transnational operation.
The disclosure was made on Friday by Justice Minister and Attorney General Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh. It concerns approximately 237.6 kilograms of cocaine intercepted on June 8, and comes amid mounting public pressure for authorities to reveal those linked to the case and ensure an impartial investigation.
At an emergency press conference held at the Ministry of Justice in Monrovia, Tweh stressed that naming these individuals does not amount to a finding of guilt. Instead, it reflects the evidence gathered so far by a Joint National Security Investigative Task Force. He explicitly noted that the designation signifies that investigators have identified information and evidence requiring further examination rather than a final determination of guilt.
The individuals were identified through witness statements, cargo documentation, operational records, and preliminary findings. Those currently in Liberia include Philip Yeoh, security manager at GLS Menzies; Festus S. Musa, a cargo handler at GLS Menzies; Ruth Gbapaywhea, an RIA scanner agent; Archie Nyanfor, a cargo handler at Express Handling Services; Arthur B. Abdullai, chief executive of Express Handling Services; Geraldine Zeon, an RIA scanner agent; and Mohammed Gbowrah, security director at Roberts International Airport.
Meanwhile, investigators are actively seeking three individuals who remain at large: Paul J. King, chief executive of GLS Menzies; Oscar Browne, chief of intelligence for RIA Security; and Emmanuel T. Zeon, a transporter for Express Handling Services. The Justice Minister declined to identify the alleged importers or principal actors behind the shipment, a decision likely to fuel continued speculation about who orchestrated the operation.
Seeking to reassure the public, Tweh declared that no person would be shielded because of influence, position, or political affiliation. He stated unequivocally that no individual will be exempt from scrutiny based on their occupation, social standing, or economic status. He emphasized that every lead will be pursued, every relevant witness interviewed, and every financial and communication trail examined.
The Attorney General confirmed that authorities have secured cargo manifests, airway bills, surveillance footage, electronic communications, financial records, screening logs, and access-control records to prevent tampering. He warned that any attempt to conceal, destroy, alter, or fabricate evidence would be treated as a serious criminal offense.
Furthermore, Tweh stated that investigators have established strict protocols governing witness interviews, forensic examinations, intelligence sharing, and evidence management to ensure any future prosecution can withstand judicial scrutiny. The government has committed to protecting witnesses and preserving the integrity of testimonies, putting measures in place so individuals possessing relevant information can come forward without fear of intimidation or retaliation.
The government’s objective extends beyond individual arrests to completely dismantling any network involved in financing, facilitating, transporting, or concealing the drugs. Tweh emphasized that successful prosecution depends on preserving the integrity of evidence and establishing the full chain of criminal responsibility.
He also issued a direct warning to those still at large, urging them to surrender to authorities. He noted that both national and international efforts are underway to locate and apprehend all persons of interest, warning that evading justice will not diminish the reach of the law.
The recent disclosures follow an order from President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to form the Joint National Security Investigative Task Force. This specialized body comprises the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency, Liberia National Police, National Security Agency, Executive Protection Service, Financial Intelligence Agency, Liberia Immigration Service, customs authorities, airport security, and the Ministry of Justice.
The task force was specifically set up to investigate the cocaine discovered at the GLS Menzies warehouse at Roberts International Airport. Since becoming operational, investigators have conducted numerous interviews, secured extensive documentary and electronic evidence, developed new leads, and launched targeted efforts to locate suspects.
Tweh added that Liberian investigators are receiving technical, intelligence, operational, and regulatory support from international law enforcement partners. Evidence gathered so far indicates that the shipment passed through multiple stages of the airport’s cargo handling chain. Consequently, investigators are examining not only the events surrounding the June 8 seizure but also whether previous shipments associated with the same actors form part of a broader criminal enterprise operating within and beyond Liberia’s borders.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to transparency, Tweh promised that the public will continue to receive updates as significant developments occur.
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