MONROVIA – Senator Amara M. Konneh has welcomed President Joseph Boakai’s strong national stance on the recent $19.2 million cocaine seizure at Roberts International Airport, while urging calm, caution, and full respect for ongoing security investigations as authorities work to dismantle what is believed to be a wider transnational drug network.
In a statement reflecting on recent engagements in the Liberian Senate, Konneh disclosed that lawmakers were formally briefed in a closed-door session by the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency and Joint Security Forces on the progress of the investigation. He noted that while public interest in immediate disclosures is high, security officials cautioned that premature release of sensitive details could jeopardize ongoing operations and allow key actors in the alleged network to escape justice.
Commending President Boakai’s national address on the issue, Konneh described the President’s firm declaration that “no status, title, or connection will shield anyone involved in illicit trafficking” as a powerful message reinforcing government’s commitment to the rule of law and the fight against drug trafficking.
He stressed that the scale of the seizure raises serious concerns about how such a large quantity of narcotics entered Liberia undetected, describing it as a challenge that demands urgent strengthening of border security, intelligence coordination, and institutional accountability. However, he emphasized the importance of allowing investigators the necessary space to complete their work professionally.
According to him, while transparency remains essential, authorities must balance public disclosure with the operational requirements of a complex international narcotics investigation. He expressed confidence that ongoing efforts by security agencies will ultimately expose all individuals involved—from couriers to masterminds—and ensure they face the full weight of Liberian law.
Beyond security concerns, Konneh warned that drug trafficking poses a broader national threat, undermining investor confidence, weakening institutions, and damaging Liberia’s international reputation. He further highlighted the devastating impact of drug networks on young people, noting that addiction, violence, and exploitation continue to spread when narcotics enter communities unchecked.
Reaffirming a strong national stance, Konneh declared that Liberia will not become a safe haven for drug traffickers or their local collaborators, adding a firm warning: “Not now, not ever.”
The statement underscores growing legislative and executive alignment on tackling narcotics trafficking, while reinforcing calls for a careful but decisive approach as investigations continue.