By Wilmot Konah, dadekolly20@gmail.com
MONROVIA, Liberia — President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has ordered an immediate investigation into allegations surrounding the Officer-in-Charge of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), Deputy Commissioner of Police Fitzgerald T. M. Biago, after he recused himself from his duties amid claims linking him to individuals allegedly involved in the illegal drug trade.
According to an August 8, 2026 release issued by the Executive Mansion, President Boakai directed the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Cllr N. Oswald Tweh to conduct a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the allegations and all related circumstances surrounding the matter.
The directive followed the President’s review of a communication from the Minister of Justice concerning Biago’s decision to recuse himself as head of the LDEA.
The Justice Minister has been instructed to submit a detailed report to the President within 48 hours, outlining the findings of the investigation. The probe comes amid emerging public allegations and social media reports concerning a pickup truck allegedly connected to a narcotics suspect or alleged drug trafficker and reportedly linked to the LDEA OIC’s office.
The reports have raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the vehicle and whether there was any connection between individuals allegedly involved in the drug trade and the LDEA leadership.
However, the allegations have not been established as facts. The investigation is expected to determine the circumstances surrounding the matter and establish whether any wrongdoing occurred.
Biago Recuses Himself
In his letter to the Minister of Justice, Biago said he was recusing himself from his active duties and functions as head of the LDEA. Biago stated that the decision was intended to preserve the integrity and transparency of Liberia’s national anti-drug campaign and maintain public trust in the agency.
He also said his recusal would help ensure an unhindered and credible administrative and security investigation into the matter. The development comes as Liberia faces heightened public attention over its fight against illegal drugs and alleged international narcotics networks. The LDEA has a central role in the government’s efforts to investigate and disrupt drug trafficking and the distribution of illegal narcotics across the country.
Boakai Reaffirms Anti-Drug Commitment
President Boakai, according to the Executive Mansion, reaffirmed that his administration remains committed to fighting illegal drugs, organized crime and corruption. The President emphasized that no individual or institution is above the law and directed that the investigation be conducted thoroughly, objectively and based solely on the facts.
Upon receiving the Justice Ministry’s report, President Boakai is expected to review the findings and determine the appropriate course of action in the interest of justice, accountability and the Liberian people.
The investigation is now expected to clarify the circumstances surrounding the allegations involving the LDEA leadership and determine whether further administrative, legal or security measures are warranted.
