Monrovia- Liberia’s investment climate faces renewed scrutiny following allegations of fraud and criminal deception against the Managing Director of the National Port Authority (NPA), Mr. Sekou Dukuly. Chinese investor Yang Dan has accused the NPA boss of unlawfully seizing control of his multi-million-dollar mineral water enterprise and misappropriating over US$3 million intended for joint business ventures.
By Willie N. Tokpah
The accusations have sent shockwaves through the nation’s business and political circles, rekindling concerns about transparency, governance, and the treatment of foreign investors in Liberia.
Speaking to reporters near his factory along the Bomi Highway, Mr. Yang described what he called “a calculated abuse of power” that left him locked out of his company.
“Sekou denied me access to my factory and kicked me out overnight,” he said, alleging that police officers under Mr. Dukuly’s influence forcibly removed him from the premises.
Yang claims he invested over US$2.55 million into a mineral water bottling plant and an additional US$1 million toward a mining venture that never materialized.
He further alleged that significant portions of these funds were diverted for Mr. Dukuly’s personal use, including luxury purchases and private property renovations.
Mr. Dukuly is reportedly under police investigation for alleged fraud and criminal deception. Repeated attempts to obtain comments from both the NPA Managing Director and the Liberia National Police proved unsuccessful as of press time.
Yang’s legal team contends that the NPA head used his public position to intimidate and marginalize their client, undermining due process despite an active court case concerning ownership and management of the company.
The dispute has reportedly turned violent. In May 2025, Mr. Yang was allegedly assaulted in Monrovia, an attack his lawyers claim is linked to the ongoing business feud. Police have not confirmed any arrests.
Wider Economic and Governance Implications
Business leaders warn that the case could have a chilling effect on investor sentiment. “When senior public officials are accused of using state influence to seize private assets, it damages Liberia’s reputation as a safe destination for investment,” business consultant Cyrus Solo said in a recent social media post.
Economists and civil society groups have also expressed alarm, arguing that the controversy underscores long-standing weaknesses in Liberia’s governance and regulatory systems.
“If allegations of fraud and intimidation within a key national institution like the NPA go unchecked, it risks eroding public trust and discouraging future investors,” a governance analyst noted.
Calls for Due Process and Accountability
Legal experts caution against drawing premature conclusions, emphasizing that the presumption of innocence must prevail.
However, they also stress the need for transparency and impartial adjudication.
“The courts must act swiftly and fairly to ensure justice for all parties involved,” one legal practitioner told reporters. “Anything less would send the wrong message to both domestic and foreign investors.”
Mr. Yang has vowed to pursue justice through legal means, insisting he will not be intimidated.
“I will continue to fight until my business is restored and those responsible are held accountable,” he said.
Meanwhile, both the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the National Port Authority have yet to issue formal statements on the matter, further fueling public skepticism.
As the case unfolds, Liberia’s business community and international partners watch closely, aware that the outcome could define whether Liberia emerges as a credible, investor-friendly economy or one where power and influence overshadow the rule of law.
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