MONROVIA — President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has ordered an immediate, comprehensive and impartial investigation into allegations that Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency Officer-in-Charge DCP Fitzgerald T. M. Biago received a Toyota pickup from an individual allegedly linked to drug trafficking, hours after Biago requested to temporarily step aside from his duties.

The Executive Mansion said the investigation must examine the allegation and all related circumstances, with Justice Minister and Attorney General Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh instructed to submit a detailed report to the president within 48 hours.

Biago’s recusal request, addressed to Tweh and dated Aug. 8, follows reports alleging that he received a pickup from individuals believed to be connected to drug trafficking, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest and the integrity of the country’s premier anti-drug agency.

The controversy also comes amid heightened public scrutiny of Liberia’s fight against illicit drugs and mounting calls for authorities to investigate and prosecute individuals linked to major cocaine trafficking cases.

“I respectfully request authorization to temporarily recuse myself from the functions of Officer-in-Charge of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), pending investigation into an allegation that I received a Toyota pickup vehicle from an individual allegedly associated with a drug-trafficking organization,” Biago wrote.

Biago Denies Allegation

Despite requesting to step aside, Biago categorically rejected the allegation.

“I have neither solicited nor knowingly accepted any gift, benefit, or inducement from a drug trafficker or anyone acting on behalf of a drug-trafficking organization,” he said.

Biago said the seriousness of the allegation makes his temporary recusal necessary to preserve the independence of any investigation, protect the integrity of the LDEA and maintain public confidence.

He stressed that his decision should not be interpreted as an admission of wrongdoing but as an act of institutional responsibility aimed at avoiding an actual or perceived conflict of interest.

“I undertake to cooperate fully with the investigation and provide all relevant information or documentation lawfully requested,” Biago added. “I respectfully request the designation of an acting official during my recusal and the timely conclusion of a fair, impartial, and transparent investigation.”

Boakai Demands Answers Within 48 Hours

Hours after Biago’s communication, the Executive Mansion announced that President Boakai had acknowledged a communication from the justice minister regarding the LDEA chief’s recusal.

“Following a review of the communication, the President has directed the Minister of Justice to immediately launch a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the allegations and all related circumstances surrounding the matter,” the Executive Mansion said.

Tweh was instructed to submit a detailed report to the president within 48 hours.

The president reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to combating illegal drugs, organized crime and corruption, stressing that no individual or institution is above the law.

Boakai said the investigation must be thorough, objective and guided solely by the facts.

According to the Executive Mansion, the president will review the findings upon receiving the report and determine the appropriate course of action “in the best interest of justice, accountability, and the people of Liberia.”

“The move comes in the wake of emerging public allegations and social media reports linking a pickup truck, allegedly connected to a narcotics suspect or trafficker to the LDEA OIC’s office,” the statement said.

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