By Amos Harris
MONROVIA, LIBERIA — The Liberian Government has dismissed as false and misleading reports suggesting that the country’s diplomatic pouch system is under investigation or was used in connection with a recent $19 million cocaine seizure.
Information Minister Jerolinmek M. Piah stated that there is no active investigation involving Liberia’s diplomatic pouch, emphasizing that there is absolutely no evidence linking the official government communication network to narcotics trafficking.
Speaking during the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing in Monrovia, Minister Piah described the allegations as baseless and unsupported by facts. He noted that attempts to associate the diplomatic pouch system with the ongoing narcotics investigation are irresponsible and intended to create unnecessary confusion while security authorities continue their work.
“The diplomatic pouch system is not under investigation, and there is no evidence whatsoever that it has been used in connection with narcotics trafficking,” Minister Piah clarified.
According to the Information Minister, Liberia’s diplomatic pouch is used exclusively for transmitting official government correspondence, communications, and classified documents to the country’s embassies, consulates, and permanent missions abroad. He explained that the system operates under internationally recognized procedures and legal protections provided by the Vienna Convention and other strict diplomatic protocols.
Minister Piah further detailed that international deliveries are transported through verified courier and postal services, while local dispatches are handled by designated government personnel. He noted that the diplomatic pouch system is governed by rigid regulations and does not carry liquid substances, commercial merchandise, or any unauthorized materials.
Warning against the spread of unverified claims, the Minister cautioned that misinformation regarding the diplomatic pouch could undermine public confidence and distract from the legitimate investigation into the drug seizure.
Minister Piah assured Liberians and international partners that the government remains fully committed to a thorough and impartial investigation into the $19 million cocaine case. He reiterated President Joseph N. Boakai’s assurance that every aspect of the matter will be pursued strictly in accordance with the laws of Liberia.
“The investigation will not be compromised, and anyone found culpable will face the full force of the law,” Minister Piah said.
He concluded by reaffirming the government’s determination to dismantle drug trafficking networks, stating that the administration will not allow Liberia to be used as a transit point or hub for narcotics and other illicit substances. The Joint Security Task Force is continuing its investigation into the seizure as authorities work to identify all individuals and networks connected to the case.