Monrovia – The Officer-in-Charge of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), Deputy Commissioner of Police Fitzgerald T. M. Biago, has strongly rejected allegations linking him to individuals accused in Liberia’s multimillion-dollar cocaine trafficking investigation, insisting that he has never accepted gifts, favors or benefits in exchange for compromising his official duties.

By Edwin G. Genoway Jr.

Biago’s denial follows allegations by political activist Martin K. N. Kollie, who claimed in a lengthy social media post that the LDEA chief received a Toyota Hilux pickup truck from George Harris, also known as Leroy Harris, a man reportedly charged by Liberian authorities in connection with the country’s US$317 million cocaine seizure.

Biago dismissed the allegations as false and misleading, saying they are not supported by credible evidence.

“I categorically reject these allegations as false, misleading, and without credible evidence,” Biago stated in a Facebook post.

The LDEA chief said his career has been dedicated to serving Liberia, upholding the law and carrying out his responsibilities with professionalism and integrity.

“I have never accepted any gift, favor, or benefit from any individual or criminal organization in exchange for compromising my duties,” he asserted.

Kollie Questions Toyota Hilux

At the center of Kollie’s allegations is a grey Toyota Hilux pickup truck that he claims is being used by Biago.

Kollie alleged that vehicle registration information he obtained lists George Wha Harris as the registered owner of the pickup, bearing license plate A532084.

According to Kollie, the vehicle was entered into the registration system in November 2024 and registered under Harris’ name. He used the alleged registration information to question how the vehicle came into Biago’s possession and whether it was provided to the LDEA chief by Harris.

However, registration of a vehicle in an individual’s name does not, by itself, establish that the vehicle was subsequently given to another person as a gift or benefit. That claim would require independent verification.

Kollie also alleged that another vehicle was purchased for Biago’s wife by individuals linked to the alleged narcotics network, but the claim was not independently substantiated in the material he published.

Claims of Security Links

Beyond the vehicle allegation, Kollie claimed that Harris maintained relationships with senior security officials, including Biago.

He further alleged that individuals involved in narcotics trafficking had developed relationships within Liberia’s security institutions, particularly the LDEA and the Liberia National Police.

Kollie called for Biago’s resignation or dismissal and urged that the allegations be subjected to a formal investigation.

He also indicated that he intends to release additional information concerning what he described as an alleged drug trafficking network and its suspected collaborators.

Biago Welcomes Investigation

Despite rejecting the allegations, Biago said he is prepared to cooperate with any legitimate investigation by the appropriate authorities.

He stressed, however, that any investigation must be independent, impartial and grounded in evidence rather than social media claims and speculation.

“I remain fully prepared to cooperate with any lawful, independent, and impartial investigation, as I am confident that the truth will prevail through due process rather than speculation or misinformation,” Biago wrote.

His response comes amid heightened public scrutiny of Liberia’s national drug enforcement efforts following major cocaine seizures and ongoing investigations into alleged narcotics trafficking networks.

‘My Focus Remains on the Drug Fight’

Biago said the allegations would not distract him from his responsibilities as head of the LDEA.

He reaffirmed his commitment to combating illicit drug trafficking, dismantling criminal networks and apprehending individuals involved in narcotics-related activities.

“My focus remains steadfast on leading the fight against illicit drugs and dismantling these networks,” he said.

The LDEA has similarly rejected claims that Biago received a vehicle from an alleged drug trafficker, describing the allegation as unsupported by any credible record, documentation or verifiable evidence.

The Agency has encouraged anyone with credible evidence of misconduct to submit it to the appropriate investigative authorities for independent and lawful review.

Allegations Require Verification

The allegations against Biago remain unproven and should not be treated as established facts unless substantiated through an official investigation or judicial proceedings.

The claims presented by Kollie, including the alleged vehicle transfer, do not by themselves establish that Biago participated in drug trafficking, accepted a bribe or committed any criminal offense.

Biago has denied the allegations and has expressly indicated his willingness to face a lawful and independent investigation.

The broader narcotics investigation also remains subject to due process, with individuals accused or charged in connection with the cocaine case entitled to the presumption of innocence unless proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.

For Biago, however, the message is clear: he says the allegations will not deter him from leading Liberia’s fight against illicit drugs.

“My focus remains steadfast on leading the fight against illicit drugs and dismantling these networks,” he said.

MATADI, Airfield – Tears, smoke, and heartbreak filled the air in the Matadi Community on Airfield after a devastating fire destroyed two apartment buildings, leaving more than 15 people homeless and wiping out everything many families had worked for over the years.

By Edwin G. Genoway, Jr, edwin.genoway@frontpageafricaonline.com

The fire broke out on Monday, July 20 sending thick black smoke into the sky as frightened residents ran for safety. Within minutes, flames had spread rapidly through the buildings, giving families almost no time to save their belongings.

Three fire trucks from the Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS) rushed to the scene, where firefighters battled the intense blaze for several hours before finally bringing it under control.

Residents joined the effort by carrying water, clearing paths, and assisting firefighters as the community fought desperately to stop the fire from spreading further.

For the victims, however, the damage had already been done. “I didn’t take anything from my home,” property owner Mr. Kromah said with visible pain as he looked at the ashes where his house once stood.

“This is frustrating.”

Mr. Kromah, still shaken by the tragedy, said he could not explain what caused the fire.

His words reflected the confusion and sadness shared by many of the victims. Among those affected was Tetee Quaye, a firefighter with the Liberia National Fire Service, who ironically lost everything she owned while serving her country.

She said she was on duty when she received the heartbreaking phone call.

“I was at work when I got the news that there was a fire in Matadi. When I came here, I saw my home in flames. I couldn’t save anything. Everything I owned was destroyed.”

With tears filling her eyes, Quaye wondered how she would begin life again after losing all her possessions in a matter of minutes.

The fire destroyed two apartment buildings, including the property owner’s residence and a four-bedroom rental apartment occupied by several families.

More than 15 people are now without shelter, clothing, food, and other basic necessities.

Adding to concerns, a makeshift gas station located directly in front of the buildings may have intensified the flames, although officials have not confirmed whether it played any role in causing or worsening the fire.

The Head of Communications at the Liberia National Fire Service, Col. Jackie M.Q. Sie, said investigators are still working to determine the exact cause of the fire.

“We are definitely going to come up with a report to determine what caused the outbreak. But for now, our major concern was to put the fire

under control and that is what our firefighters have done,” she told reporters at the scene.

As the flames flickered out, a heart-wrenching scene unfolded in the neighborhood. Men, women, and children stood in stunned silence, gazing at the charred remains of what used to be their homes.

Some victims wept openly, while others seemed too dazed to utter a word.  Senior officers from the Liberia National Police arrived to secure the area as hundreds of community members gathered to witness the devastation.

This tragedy has left families facing an uncertain future. With no homes to return to and no belongings to salvage, many victims are now relying on the generosity of relatives, neighbors and kind-hearted strangers.

As these families work to rebuild their lives from the ashes, there’s a growing hope that the Government of Liberia(GoL), humanitarian organizations, businesses and compassionate citizens will step up with emergency aid, including temporary shelter, food, clothing, bedding and financial support.

For the victims of the Matadi fire, while the flames may have been put out, the painful journey of rebuilding their lives is just beginning.

Monrovia – The political leader of the Movement for Progressive Change (MPC), Simeon Freeman, has sharply criticized President Joseph Nyuma Boakai over the government’s handling of the ongoing US$19.21 million drug case, publicly accusing the President of failing to ensure accountability in one of Liberia’s most high-profile narcotics investigations.

By Edwin G. Genoway, Jr

Speaking on the matter, Freeman alleged that the President’s silence and what he described as a lack of urgency in resolving the case have raised serious public concerns.

“President Boakai is a drug peddler. Only a drug peddler can ignore such a huge drug case that has captured the attention of the entire nation,” Freeman said.

Freeman further accused President Boakai of turning a blind eye to the investigation surrounding the seizure of narcotics valued at approximately US$19.21 million, arguing that Liberians deserve clear answers about the circumstances surrounding the case and the progress of the investigation.

“How can a serious country have a president who frequents nightclubs while citizens remain confused about the origins of US$19.21 million worth of drugs in Liberia?” Freeman asked.

The MPC political leader said the government’s handling of the case has undermined public confidence in state institutions, insisting that transparency and accountability are essential if the administration is to maintain the trust of the Liberian people.

The US$19.21 million drug case remains one of the country’s most significant narcotics investigations. Authorities have previously announced arrests and launched investigations into the circumstances surrounding the seizure, but the case continues to attract intense public attention as many Liberians await a comprehensive investigative report and the conclusion of judicial proceedings. Questions surrounding the origin of the drugs, the individuals responsible, and the status of the investigation have continued to fuel public debate.

Freeman argued that the prolonged uncertainty surrounding the case reflects broader governance challenges and criticized what he described as the administration’s failure to provide timely information to the public.

Critics of the Unity Party-led government have also expressed concern over the pace of the investigation, with some arguing that the administration has not done enough to reassure the public that everyone connected to the case will be held accountable regardless of their status.

As public scrutiny intensifies, many Liberians continue to call on law enforcement agencies and the government to conclude the investigation, publish its findings, and ensure that anyone found responsible faces the full weight of the law.

The Government of Liberia and President Joseph Nyuma Boakai have publicly denied any involvement in drug trafficking. As of publication, no evidence has been presented establishing that President Boakai is involved in the US$19.21 million drug case, and the investigation remains ongoing.

MONROVIA – The Government of Liberia and key partners have launched a new five-year strategic plan for the Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA), aimed at strengthening the country’s fight against money laundering, corruption, terrorist financing, and other financial crimes.

By Edwin G. Genoway, Jr, edwin.genoway@frontpageafricaonline.com

The launch program was held at the FIA headquarters in Sinkor on June 30, 2026, with Alaric K. Tokpah serving as keynote speaker.

In his address, Tokpah said protecting Liberia’s financial system is important for national security, economic growth, and public trust in government institutions. He explained that criminals who move money illegally do more than break the law; they also take away resources that could be used to improve schools, hospitals, roads, agriculture, and jobs for ordinary Liberians.

He praised the current leadership of the FIA for restoring confidence in the institution after what he described as difficult years in the past.

“The FIA has started to enforce sanctions against non-compliant institutions, issue warnings to entities that violate regulations, and initiate probes into irregularities across sectors,” Tokpah said.

According to him, the FIA is once again playing its role of protecting Liberia’s financial system and ensuring that public institutions operate with transparency and accountability.

Tokpah also stressed that fighting financial crimes cannot be done by one institution alone. He called for stronger cooperation between the FIA, the Ministry of Justice, the Central Bank of Liberia, the Liberia Revenue Authority, the judiciary, civil society organizations, the media, and international partners.

He noted that financial crimes often cross national borders, making partnerships with international organizations such as Intergovernmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa, Financial Action Task Force, and the Egmont Group very important.

“National security today is not only about borders and weapons. It is also about money, data, networks, and institutions,” Tokpah told the audience.

Also speaking at the event, Alex Cuffey, representing the Minister of Finance and Development Planning, said the strategic plan comes at an important time as Liberia works to improve public financial management and grow the economy.

Cuffey warned that financial crimes hurt national development by taking money away from important sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and energy.

“The Ministry of Finance and Development Planning recognizes the vital role of the FIA in protecting the integrity of the financial system of Liberia,” he said.

He added that the successful implementation of the plan would improve cooperation among government institutions, strengthen financial investigations, increase the recovery of stolen assets, and help Liberia meet international financial standards.

Cuffey also assured the FIA of the government’s continued support. “Achieving the objectives of this strategic plan will require sustained political commitment, adequate resources, institutional coordination, and continued investment in capacity and technology,” he said.

Meanwhile, the banking sector also pledged its support for the new strategy.

Speaking on behalf of the Liberia Bankers Association, Prince Seton praised the FIA for developing the plan and described it as an important step toward strengthening Liberia’s financial system.

Seton represented Olalekan Balogun at the event. He said banks and financial institutions have a shared responsibility to help prevent money laundering and terrorist financing.

“The banking sector fully supports this initiative because protecting the integrity of our financial system is a shared responsibility,” Seton said.

Quoting British writer C. S. Lewis, he reminded participants that, “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.”

The FIA Strategic Plan covers the period from 2026 to 2031 and is expected to guide the agency’s work in improving financial intelligence, strengthening partnerships, increasing institutional capacity, and supporting Liberia’s fight against corruption and financial crimes.

Officials at the launch said the plan is not just a document, but a national commitment to ensuring that Liberia’s financial system serves the interests of the people and supports the country’s long-term economic growth and stability.

MONROVIA – The Movement for Progressive Change (MPC) political leader, Simeon Freeman, has called for international sanctions against senior government officials if authorities fail to bring the ongoing investigation into the country’s high-profile airport drug seizure to a conclusion within the next two weeks.

By Edwin Genoway

Freeman’s comments come amid public scrutiny surrounding the investigation into a cocaine shipment reportedly valued at approximately US$19 million that was intercepted at Roberts International Airport.
The case has generated widespread debate across the country, with citizens, civil society organizations, and opposition figures demanding greater transparency regarding the identities of those responsible and the progress of the investigation.
Addressing the issue, Freeman argued that the government’s response has been insufficient and has failed to reassure the public that every effort is being made to uncover the full scope of the alleged trafficking operation. According to him, the prolonged nature of the investigation has created an environment in which speculation continues to flourish while official answers remain limited.

Freeman maintained that the government has a responsibility to provide regular updates on the status of the case, especially given the magnitude of the seizure and its potential implications for Liberia’s international image. He said the absence of publicly announced arrests and the continued withholding of key information have contributed to growing concerns among ordinary Liberians.

“The Liberian people deserve more than vague assurances that an investigation is ongoing. This case involves a massive quantity of narcotics that allegedly passed through critical points of our national security infrastructure, and yet weeks later the public is still waiting to hear who organized the shipment, who financed it, who was expected to receive it, and whether individuals within state institutions may have played any role in facilitating its movement. Transparency is not optional in a matter of this magnitude; it is essential to restoring public confidence and protecting Liberia’s credibility before the international community,” Freeman said.

The opposition politician further questioned why authorities have not disclosed the names of persons of interest or announced any significant breakthroughs despite the considerable attention the case has received. While acknowledging the work of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency in intercepting the shipment, Freeman argued that the investigation should have already produced concrete results.
According to him, the government’s handling of the matter risks sending the wrong message both domestically and internationally. He warned that Liberia could face reputational consequences if foreign partners conclude that authorities are unwilling or unable to aggressively pursue those responsible for large-scale narcotics trafficking.

Freeman also expressed concern about what he described as inconsistencies in the government’s public communications regarding the case. He noted that while officials have cited the need to protect the integrity of the investigation as justification for withholding certain information, public attention has increasingly focused on the disclosure of details surrounding individuals who helped expose aspects of the scandal.

“This is no longer simply a criminal investigation; it has become a test of Liberia’s commitment to accountability and the rule of law. If powerful people are being shielded from scrutiny while ordinary citizens are expected to trust a process that offers few answers, then confidence in public institutions will continue to erode. The international community has a legitimate interest in ensuring that Liberia does not become a safe corridor for transnational drug trafficking, and if meaningful progress is not made within a reasonable period, there should be serious consequences for those entrusted with overseeing this investigation,” Freeman added.
The MPC leader subsequently called on Liberia’s international partners to closely monitor developments in the case and consider punitive measures should the investigation fail to reach a credible conclusion within 14 days. Among the actions he proposed were sanctions targeting senior government officials, including restrictions on assets and other measures designed to encourage accountability.

For its part, the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency has maintained that the investigation remains active and that certain information cannot be released prematurely without jeopardizing ongoing efforts.

Officials have repeatedly stated that investigators are pursuing all available leads and remain committed to bringing those responsible to justice.

Monrovia – The Civil Service Agency (CSA) has announced a series of reforms aimed at improving public service delivery, employee welfare and decentralization across Liberia.

By Edwin G. Genoway, Jr(231886458910)-edwin.genoway@frontpageafricaonline.com

Speaking at a press conference in Monrovia on Wednesday, CSA Director-General, Dr. Josiah F. Joekai Jr.,  said the agency is making significant investments to strengthen its operations, including the installation of a new 200 KVA generator, Starlink internet services, and the procurement of six vehicles.

“We are pleased to report tangible progress in strengthening Liberia’s public service and improving the systems, structures, and institutions that support government operations across the country,” Dr. Joekai said.

The CSA boss also disclosed that the agency has completed renovations of its Western Regional Office, which will serve public servants in Bomi, Grand Cape Mount and Gbarpolu Counties.

 He added that plans are underway to construct additional regional offices in Grand Gedeh, Bong and Grand Bassa Counties as part of the government’s decentralization agenda.

Dr. Joekai further announced that more than 6,000 government employees have been identified for the 2026 national retirement exercise.

According to him, the process will allow affected workers adequate time to prepare for retirement while enabling institutions to plan for replacements.

“Retirement represents a well-deserved recognition of years of dedicated service to the Republic of Liberia, and the Government remains committed to ensuring that retirees transition with dignity, honor and appreciation,” he stated.

The CSA also revealed that a nationwide rollout of the Government of Liberia’s Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Agreement will begin immediately, with all public institutions required to comply by July 31, 2026.

On employee welfare, Dr. Joekai intimated that  enrollment in the Legal Power of Attorney Scheme has increased to 9,416 employees, with over US$587,000 in transactions processed. He warned Human Resource Directors against blocking eligible employees from accessing the benefit.

“This communication serves as the final warning to all Human Resource Directors regarding this matter,” he asserted.

Meanwhile, Dr. Joekai announced that the 2026 National Public Service Day celebration will be held in Sanniquellie, Nimba County, on June 23, with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai expected to serve as Special Guest of Honor.

He said the reforms and initiatives demonstrate the government’s commitment to building a professional, accountable and citizen-centered public service.

“The journey toward a transformed public service is ongoing, but the progress we are witnessing today confirms that we are moving in the right direction,” Dr. Joekai added.

Monrovia – The Liberia Land Authority and the Financial Intelligence Agency have officially launched a nationwide awareness campaign aimed at educating the public and stakeholders about new standards and regulations in the real estate industry.

By Edwin G. Genoway, Jr. – edwin.genoway@frontpageafricaonline.com

The campaign seeks to make the buying, selling, leasing, and development of land and property more transparent, accountable and secure.

Officials say the initiative is necessary because the real estate sector plays an important role in Liberia’s economy but continues to face challenges such as fraud, land disputes, corruption and the risk of money laundering.

According to the Officer-in-Charge of the FIA, Mohammed Nasser, some individuals and criminal groups have used property transactions to hide money obtained through illegal activities.

Through the awareness campaign, the FIA hopes to educate property owners, real estate agents, developers, lawyers, surveyors and construction companies about their responsibilities under Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism regulations.

Nasser said the campaign will encourage people involved in property transactions to maintain proper documentation and verify ownership before buying or selling land.

He noted that greater transparency will help reduce fraud, prevent land conflicts, and strengthen public confidence in the real estate sector.

Speaking at the launch, Liberia Land Authority Chairman, Samuel F. Kpakio, said the initiative comes at a critical time for the country.

He explained that for many years Liberia’s real estate sector operated with limited regulation and weak oversight, creating opportunities for fraud, land disputes and financial crimes.

“Today, we are laying the institutional foundation for a transparent, accountable, and professionally regulated real estate sector in Liberia,” Kpakio said.

He continued as saying, “These measures are not intended to discourage business or investment. Rather, they are designed to protect legitimate investment, strengthen public confidence, improve transparency, and establish Liberia as a credible investment destination.”

Kpakio stressed that transparency is essential for national development and said the partnership between the LLA and FIA will help create a modern real estate sector that protects property owners while encouraging responsible investment.

For many Liberians, land is one of their most valuable assets.

However, disputes over ownership and poor documentation have often led to conflicts that can last for years.

The Liberia Land Authority says it is working to modernize land administration systems, improve property records, and establish more reliable methods for valuing land and buildings across the country.

These reforms are expected to make property transactions easier, safer, and more secure for citizens.

They will also help ensure that buyers know exactly who owns a piece of property before purchasing it, reducing the risk of fraud and future disputes.

The awareness campaign is also intended to help businesses and professionals operating in the real estate sector understand their legal obligations.

Real estate agents, brokers, lawyers, developers and construction companies will receive information on how to keep accurate records, verify clients’ identities, and report suspicious transactions when necessary.

Officials say the benefits of the campaign extend beyond the real estate industry. Better property records and valuation systems can help the government collect taxes more effectively, generating additional revenue that can be used to support roads, schools, hospitals and other public services.

Acting Risk Management Director at the FIA, Tanneh Sonpon, encouraged vendors and real estate owners to be careful and check thoroughly and know who they selling and doing business with.

“The FIA stands ready to ensure that there’s fair deal among land owners, real estate owners and buyers,” Miss Sonpon noted that the launch is expected to reach property owners, real estate professionals, surveyors, financial institutions, local government officials, and members of the general public who are involved in buying, selling or renting property.

“We believe that by increasing public awareness and strengthening oversight, Liberia can create a safer and more trustworthy real estate market,” she noted.

Madam Sonpon says the campaign represents an important step toward protecting property rights, attracting investment, fighting financial crimes and ensuring that the real estate sector contributes positively to the country’s economic growth.

Paynesberry, Grand Bassa County — Students at Grand Bassa University (GBU) now have new reasons to feel hopeful about their education, following a major visit by Simeon Freeman, Political Leader of the Movement for Progressive Change (MPC).

By Edwin G. Genoway

During his visit, Mr. Freeman introduced several plans designed to make learning easier and more comfortable for students. These include faster internet, scholarships and improvements to the school’s facilities.

One of the biggest announcements was the introduction of Starlink internet service across the entire campus. This means students will soon have access to fast and reliable internet everywhere on campus, starting next week. Many students have struggled in the past because the existing internet did not reach all areas.

Mr. Freeman explained that this upgrade will help students study better, do research, and stay connected. In today’s world, internet access is very important for education.

“I know things are hard and the economy is tough. There are many students who are eager to learn but do not have the hand, but I am providing about 100 scholarships for students who want to learn but do not have the hand,” Mr. Freeman said.

To support students even more, he announced 100 scholarships that will begin next semester. These scholarships will help students who are serious about their studies but may not have enough money to continue their education.

Mr. Freeman made it clear that students do not need a very high GPA to keep the scholarship. Instead, they only need to work hard and pass their courses. “The students are many and the only requirement about this scholarship is to make a pass to continue being there. If you can’t study to maintain the space, sorry we are going to drop you and bring onboard another student who’s willing to learn,” he added.

Beyond academics, Freeman also promised to improve campus life. He plans to install DSTV and a 64-inch television in the Palava Hut so students can watch news, learn new things, and relax.

He also committed to fixing plumbing and sanitation systems, which will improve hygiene and comfort on campus.

Students and school leaders welcomed these developments with excitement and gratitude. Acting Student Union Government President Winifred Yah Peters expressed her happiness, saying, “We don’t know how to say thank you Mr. Freeman. This is good news for our school. Many students don’t come on campus because of the lack of internet, but with this improvement, everything will change.”

The Acting President of GBU, Dr. Moses Bull, also praised Freeman’s efforts. He explained that the university has been facing many challenges, including problems with water, sewage, and internet access.

Dr. Bull said Freeman’s support is coming at the right time and will help solve many of these issues. Overall, these initiatives show a strong commitment to helping students succeed. By improving internet access, offering scholarships, and upgrading campus facilities, Mr. Freeman is making a meaningful difference in the lives of GBU students, Dr. Bull noted.

MONROVIA – In Kporkpahkon Community, Marshall, Margibi County, what began as a simple complaint has now turned into a deepening crisis involving land rights, environmental concerns and growing questions about accountability.

By Edwin G. Genoway, Jr

The dispute centers on sand mining activities along the Kpor River Bank by the company ZHOU QI TAO, operating under its parent brand AfriRock Investment Inc., and how institutions like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Ministry of Mines and Energy have responded.

The problem started when landowners including Patricia Marsh, Archie Wilson, Aloysius Soete, Bradley Browne, Brenda Tamba, Faustenal Dahn, Georgetta Williams, and Viviann Marsh reported that foreign nationals believed to be linked to the company entered their property without permission.

According to them, the individuals began clearing the land and preparing it for mining activities.

“They came onto our land without our consent and started destroying it,” Archie Wilson said. “We asked the government to step in immediately.”

Miss Marsh explained that the first formal engagement took place earlier on December 9, 2025, when sheriffs carrying writs were taken to the site.

She noted that the property had been acquired with the intention of developing an ecolodge to benefit the community, with a strong focus on preserving environmental integrity—an issue she described as central to the ongoing dispute.

At the time, there was no clear proof that the company had legal approval to operate on the private land. On January 14, 2026, the EPA visited the site and confirmed that mining was already underway. The agency issued a stop order, instructing the company to halt its operations. However, according to the landowners, the work continued.

“Even after the stop order, nothing changed,” Wilson explained. “They kept working like no law existed.”

Providing further details, Marsh said that following a scheduled conference with the EPA on January 19, which she attended along with their lawyer, the company failed to show up.

She added that a second conference was later organized ahead of an April 1 meeting with the company, but the landowners did not receive a formal invitation.

According to her, although their legal representative—who attended the first meeting—was contacted by an EPA representative around the same time, it was for separate discussions unrelated to the formal conference.

Around that same period, the Ministry of Mines and Energy reportedly granted the company a six-month exploratory permit.

“That permit only allows work in the river channel—it does not give them the right to operate on private land,” Patricia said.

As weeks passed, the situation became more confusing.

Despite the EPA’s stop order, mining activities reportedly continued and enforcement actions were not taken. On March 17, a letter surfaced claiming that the community supported AfriRock’s operations and that no other group had the authority to challenge the project.

But the landowners strongly rejected this claim. “This so-called support is misleading,” Patricia Marsh said. “It does not represent the real landowners.”

She pointed out that the letter lacked proof of ownership and contradicted ongoing legal disputes. Some of the individuals who signed the document were also said to be linked to earlier land transactions that are now under question.

On April 1, 2026, Patricia Marsh and her husband, Bradley Browne met with an EPA official and submitted documents to prove ownership of the disputed land.

They were told a joint meeting would be arranged. “We were ready to sit down and resolve this fairly,” Bradley Browne said. But according to them, that meeting never took place.

Instead, the EPA later held another meeting without inviting the landowners. Shortly after, between April 9 and 10, permits were reportedly issued to AfriRock, allowing the company to expand its operations.

“We were completely left out, yet decisions were made about our land,” Browne added. On April 13, the couple formally protested what they described as the illegal use of about 1.2 acres of their property and warned of serious environmental damage.

“Our land is being destroyed, and no one is listening,” their complaint stated.

Further concerns grew on April 15, when officials from the Ministry of Mines and Energy visited the site and reportedly observed that mining was ongoing, including on private property and beyond the permitted scope. Reports indicated visible environmental damage, raising fears about flooding and water contamination.

The following day, April 16, the landowners filed another complaint and attempted to meet with senior EPA officials, but said their efforts were unsuccessful.

“We keep calling, but there is no response,” Patricia disclosed. By mid-April 2026, the situation had reached a critical point. Mining activities were intensifying, environmental risks were increasing, and the response from authorities remained uncertain.

“This is not just about land anymore,” Bradley Browne told FrontPage Africa. “It’s about fairness and the rule of law.”

Meanwhile, the company has offered limited public response. Speaking to FrontPage Africa, AfriRock’s local representative, Stanley Gaye, initially confirmed that the land in question is indeed under dispute and acknowledged several of the concerns raised by the landowners, though he described some of the allegations as inaccurate.

In a follow-up interaction, Gaye told reporters he needed time to consult with his superiors before providing a detailed response. However, when contacted again a day later, he stated that his bosses had instructed him not to speak further on the matter and abruptly ended the call.

The landowners—including Aloysius Soete, Archie Wilson, Bradley Browne, Brenda Tamba, Faustenal Dahn, Georgetta Williams, Patricia Marsh, and Viviann Marsh—say they remain determined to defend their property.

MONROVIA – Serious questions are being raised about the role of Edwin Tisdell, a senior official at the Liberia National Fire Service, and a number of government printing and advertising contracts reportedly linked to a company he founded before joining government.

By Edwin Genoway

Tisdell currently serves as Deputy Director for Operations at the Fire Service. Before taking up the government job, he founded the Champions Group of Companies, which includes the printing and advertising firm Champion Design.

Although Tisdell is said to have stepped down from direct management of the company when he joined government, critics say his connection to the business still raises serious questions.

According to several sources familiar with government contracting, Tisdell is allegedly still involved in seeking printing and advertising jobs for the company he created. Sources claim he sometimes uses his position as a government official to approach other ministries and agencies to negotiate contracts for Champion Design.

These claims have sparked concern among business owners who say many Liberian companies struggle to get government contracts because they do not have strong political connections.

Information circulating among government insiders and industry observers suggests that Champion Design has secured contracts from several government institutions.

Sources say the company is currently erecting billboards for the Ministry of Transport and has also provided printing services for the Liberia National Fire Service—the same institution where Tisdell holds a senior leadership position.

For many observers, this situation raises concerns about conflict of interest. A conflict of interest happens when a public official may personally benefit from decisions made in their government role.

Business leaders and civil society groups say the situation could damage public trust in Liberia’s government contracting system.

“There are many capable Liberian printing and advertising companies that deserve a fair opportunity,” one industry observer said. “When one company appears to receive many government jobs while being linked to a senior official, people begin to question whether the process is fair.”

The issue has also drawn criticism toward the government of Joseph Boakai, with some observers saying stronger rules should be enforced to prevent possible conflicts of interest among public officials.

Governance advocates say the case shows why Liberia needs stronger monitoring of how government contracts are awarded, so that businesses compete fairly and public officials avoid situations that could benefit their private interests.

Up to now, Tisdell and representatives of Champion Design have not publicly responded to the allegations.

Meanwhile, some citizens and civil society groups are calling on oversight institutions to investigate the matter and clarify whether proper procurement procedures were followed.

The debate comes at a time when many Liberians are demanding greater transparency and accountability from government officials who are expected to serve the public interest.