By Staff Writer
Calls are mounting for Liberia National Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman to resign or temporarily step aside from the ongoing investigation into the country’s $336 million narcotics scandal, amid allegations surrounding vehicles reportedly acquired outside normal government procurement procedures and questions regarding police fleet management.
The controversy raises a fundamental issue of public confidence: whether a senior security official facing serious questions about administrative decisions can credibly lead an investigation into the alleged infiltration of Liberia’s security institutions by drug-trafficking organizations. While these claims remain unverified and subject to due process, the nature of the accusations has intensified scrutiny on police leadership.
At the center of the dispute are three black sport-utility vehicles acquired for the police force. Critics allege the vehicles—one valued at over $90,000 and the set totaling over $150,000—were not funded through regular budgetary allocations or standard procurement processes. Allegations that cash was provided for the purchase have prompted demands for a thorough examination of financial sources, customs records, and ownership documentation. Further questions surround Jose Quintin Russell, an associate of Coleman who reportedly bought the vehicles in the United States before taking on fleet-management duties for the police, while maintaining an interest in a private auto-servicing business in Congo Town where police vehicles are maintained.
Beyond the vehicle acquisitions, concerns have surfaced regarding internal administrative decisions and operational protocols. Questions have been raised about the return and promotion of senior officers who previously faced disciplinary scrutiny connected to the narcotics probe, as well as the assignment of key personnel during the seizure of a suspected $317 million drug shipment.
With high-ranking security personnel already facing suspension or dismissal over alleged links to drug networks, critics argue that Coleman’s continued leadership creates a clear appearance of conflict. Addressing these concerns through an independent review or temporary recusal mechanism may be necessary to preserve public trust, uphold institutional accountability, and protect the integrity of Liberia’s anti-narcotics campaign.