MONROVIA, Liberia – July 4, 2026 — LNP charges five suspects in connection with the seizure of approximately 237.6 kilograms of cocaine valued at more than US$19 million at Roberts International Airport (RIA). Inspector General Gregory Coleman announced the charges during a national press briefing, describing the case as one of Liberia’s largest drug trafficking investigations in recent years.
LNP Charges Five Suspects After Joint Investigation
The Liberia National Police said the charges followed an extensive investigation conducted by a Joint National Security Investigation Team under the supervision of the Ministry of Justice.
Investigators reviewed cargo records, witness statements, screening reports, communication logs, digital evidence and financial information connected to the shipment.
According to the police, the evidence suggests the shipment formed part of an organized transnational drug trafficking operation that attempted to move cocaine through Liberia’s aviation cargo system.
Authorities Discover Cocaine Hidden Inside Cargo
The investigation began after six cargo boxes presented for export raised concerns during routine screening at Roberts International Airport.
The shipment was reportedly declared as containing Maggi cubes and lappas. However, airport security officers noticed discrepancies in the declared weight and cargo documentation.
As a result, officers ordered a physical inspection before the shipment could leave Liberia.
Authorities discovered 198 plates of a white powder concealed inside the boxes. Laboratory tests conducted by the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency confirmed the substance was cocaine weighing approximately 237.6 kilograms.
Investigators estimate the street value of the seized drugs at more than US$19 million.
LNP Charges Five Suspects Under Drug Laws
Following the investigation, LNP charges five suspects along with one logistics company.
- Paul J. King
- Global Logistics Services (GLS)
- Michael U.S. Browne, also known as Rahim or Raheem Bah
- Oscar J. Browne
- Emmanuel Kpah
- Usman Ali, identified by investigators as the consignee based in the United Kingdom
Police said several suspects have been charged in absentia because they are believed to be outside Liberia or are avoiding arrest.
Charges Announced by Police
Authorities announced the following charges under Liberia’s Amended Controlled Drugs and Substance Act of 2023 and the Revised Penal Code:
- Unlicensed exportation of controlled drugs or substances
- Unlicensed transportation and trading of controlled drugs
- Unlicensed possession of controlled drugs
- Illicit trafficking in controlled drugs
- Criminal conspiracy
- Criminal solicitation where applicable
LNP Charges Five Suspects as Investigation Continues
Meanwhile, investigators said the case remains active. Law enforcement agencies are pursuing suspects believed to be outside Liberia through international cooperation, arrest warrants and extradition procedures where applicable.
Officials are also reviewing previous cargo shipments that investigators believe may be connected to the same alleged trafficking network.
Airport Security Measures to Be Strengthened
In addition, authorities announced plans to improve cargo screening procedures, strengthen chain-of-custody systems and tighten airport security controls at Roberts International Airport.
The Liberia National Police warned that any airport employee, public official, private company or security officer found to have knowingly participated in the alleged trafficking operation or obstructed the investigation would face prosecution.
Inspector General Warns Drug Traffickers
Inspector General Gregory Coleman said Liberia will not allow organized criminal groups to use the country’s airports as transit routes for illegal narcotics.
He stated that investigators will continue pursuing financiers, organizers, facilitators and anyone connected to the alleged trafficking network.
He also warned that attempts to bribe officers or interfere with criminal investigations would be met with the full force of the law.
Due Process Remains Essential
Although LNP charges five suspects, Inspector General Coleman emphasized that every accused person remains entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
The Liberia National Police said investigators will continue working with prosecutors and international partners as the case proceeds through Liberia’s judicial system.
Editor’s Note
This report is based on an official statement delivered by Liberia National Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman on July 4, 2026. The allegations summarized in this article reflect the findings announced by investigators. All accused persons remain presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
Source: Liberia National Police Press Statement, July 4, 2026.
Hmmm this country