NATIONAL NEWS
CAPITOL HILL – Montserrado County Senators Abraham Darius Dillon and Saah H. Joseph have called on the Liberian Senate to recommend the temporary suspension of the cargo-handling concession operated by GLS Menzies at Roberts International Airport (RIA) while investigations continue into the recent seizure of cocaine valued at approximately US$19.2 million.
By: Sampson W Weah – sampsonwweah7@gmail.com
In a joint communication to the Senate Plenary, the lawmakers said the June 8 interception of about 237.6 kilograms of cocaine inside the GLS Menzies warehouse has raised serious concerns that warrant immediate action.
The senators argued that suspending the concession would help protect the integrity of the investigation and reassure both Liberians and international partners that the government is treating the matter with the seriousness it deserves.
Their communication noted that the Joint National Security Investigative Task Force has identified GLS Menzies General Manager Paul J. King and Security Manager Philip Yeoh as persons of interest in the ongoing investigation.
According to the senators, it would be prudent to temporarily halt the company’s operations while authorities complete their investigation, particularly given that the concessionaire is responsible for handling cargo at the country’s main international airport.
They stressed that their proposal should not be interpreted as a declaration of guilt against GLS Menzies or its officials.
Rather, they described it as a precautionary measure intended to preserve evidence, ensure transparency, and maintain public confidence in the investigative process.
The lawmakers added that if the company and its officials are cleared of any wrongdoing, the concession should be allowed to resume operations.
The request comes as public attention remains focused on what is regarded as one of Liberia’s largest cocaine seizures in recent years.
The case has intensified calls for accountability and a comprehensive review of the security measures that allowed the narcotics to enter the airport’s cargo facility.
Following the communication, the Senate Plenary referred the matter to its Committees on Security and Judiciary for review.
The committees are expected to present their recommendations, after which the Senate will decide whether to advise the Executive Branch to suspend the cargo-handling concession until the investigation is concluded.
