NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has suspended a member of the Board of Directors of the National Oil Company of Liberia (National Oil Company of Liberia), Mr. Peter Malcolm King, pending the outcome of an ongoing national security investigation into a major cocaine seizure at Roberts International Airport.
By: Trokon S. Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
The suspension takes immediate effect and comes in connection with an investigation involving the interception of approximately 237.6 kilograms of cocaine at Roberts International Airport (Roberts International Airport), one of Liberia’s main international entry points.
According to the Executive Mansion, the decision follows briefings from the Ministry of Justice and the Joint National Security Task Force, which reportedly identified entities associated with Mr. King as part of individuals and institutions requiring further scrutiny in the widening probe.
Authorities stressed that the suspension is an administrative and preventive measure intended to safeguard the integrity of the investigation, preserve public confidence in state institutions, and ensure that the process proceeds without interference or undue influence.
The government was quick to emphasize that the move does not amount to a finding of guilt, nor should it be interpreted as prejudging the outcome of the investigation. Officials said the action is aimed solely at ensuring transparency and independence in the ongoing inquiry.
The cocaine seizure at RIA has drawn significant public attention, raising renewed concerns about Liberia’s vulnerability to international drug trafficking networks and the potential infiltration of illicit activities into state-linked institutions.
President Boakai’s administration has reiterated its commitment to fighting drug trafficking and strengthening governance systems through accountability and the rule of law.
Officials say the government remains determined to ensure that all individuals and entities linked to the investigation are thoroughly and fairly examined.
In a public appeal, the President urged citizens to remain calm and avoid speculation, stressing that investigators must be allowed to carry out their work without interference.
The Executive Mansion added that all matters connected to the case will be handled in accordance with Liberian law and pursued to their conclusion in a transparent and impartial manner.
As the investigation continues, the case is emerging as one of the most closely watched security and governance developments of the year, with potential implications for public trust in institutions and Liberia’s broader anti-narcotics efforts.
