LACC Wields Sledgehammer -Secures 2 Separate Indictments for Alleged Culprits

MONROVIA – While politicians are making political noises all over the place as to mask respective defects here and there, professionals at the country’s anti-corruption commission are clearly not going along that line; they are rather paying keen attention to details that matter—to the country’s most illusive and most powerful enemy: corruption, and those who perpetrate it, and are at times to provide the space so that those who are accused and feeling tainted have opportunity to clear their names. And it seems the dragnet has paid off, to some extent, as the commission has secured two separate indictments: one against officials of the Lofa County University, and the other against Gbarpolu County officials in yellow machines saga. The Analyst reports.   

The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has confirmed that the Tenth Judicial Circuit Court in Lofa County has indicted Dr. Isaac P. Podah, President of Lofa County University, along with former President Dr. Samuel K. Ngamai and several senior officials of the institution, for alleged involvement in acts of massive corruption.

According to an LACC release, the indictment, issued on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, is based on evidence provided by the LACC following a comprehensive investigation into financial irregularities totaling approximately US$410,000 and L$13.3 million.

The individuals indicted include Dr. Isaac P. Podah, President; Dr. Stephen K. Ngamai, Former President, Mr. Catakaw, Vice President for Administration; Rev. Victor Padmore, Board Chair; and Madam Annie Flomo, Board Co-Chair.

Others indicted include Mr. Anthony C. Crayton, Administrative Assistant; Mr. Peter C. Taylor- Former Comptroller; Mr. Vamuyah Kanneh, Mr. Alieu Kamara, Mr. Amara Sheriff, Mr. Moiseleekee.

The release noted that the charges include Economic Sabotage, Theft of Property, Misapplication of Entrusted Property, Criminal Conspiracy, Conflict of Interest, and Abuse of Office for Private Gain.

The LACC said the indictment highlights several financial malpractices including that the accused officials authorized and disbursed public funds without documentation of work performed.

Notably, a retreat budgeted at USD 3,350 was never held, yet a check was issued in the name of Madam Flomo with no record of reimbursement to the University’s finance office.

The actions of the defendants violate provisions of the Public Financial Management Act, the National Code of Conduct for Public Officials, and the Penal Code of Liberia.

The LACC reaffirms its dedication to combating corruption and safeguarding public resources. The Commission urges all stakeholders to support the judicial process and uphold the principles of integrity and accountability.

In another development, the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has announced a significant prosecutorial milestone in Gbarpolu County.

The 16th Judicial Circuit Court has returned a True Bill on all counts of the indictment against several county officials and a private vendor in connection with the procurement and management of heavy-duty equipment, commonly referred to as the “Yellow Machines” case.

Following the indictment, writs of arrest have been issued and served on the following individuals: Sam K. Zinnah, Superintendent, Gbarpolu County; Omaru Sheriff, Chief Executive Officer, City Lion (Vendor); J. Keyah Saah, Former Superintendent, Gbarpolu County; Anthony Yorkor, Former Fiscal Superintendent, and Robert Benda, Former Chairperson, Gbarpolu Project Management Committee (PMC).

The LACC said the charges stem from alleged acts of corruption and abuse of public resources related to the acquisition and handling of machinery intended for county development.

The indictment is the result of extensive investigative work by the LACC and reflects the Commission’s commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency in public service.

The LACC commends the Grand Jury and the judiciary for their cooperation and reiterates its resolve to pursue justice in all cases of public sector corruption.