The Minister of the Ministry of Information, Culture Affairs and Tourism (MICAT), Jerolinmek Mathew Piah, has spoken on the ongoing controversy surrounding the US$19 million narcotics seizure at Roberts International Airport (RIA).
By Augustus D.R Bortue-augustus d.r bortue@frontpageafrica on line.com
Speaking on Thursday, June 18, at MICAT’s regular press briefing in Monrovia, Minister Piah gave a strong defence of the government’s approach and strongly warned against public speculations.
‘‘There is a lot of unnecessary speculation surrounding this matter, and I believe it is a waste of time. Those in charge of this investigation represent a combination of local and international professionals. This is a serious matter that has attracted international attention. Rather than engaging in speculations, we should allow the investigators to complete their work, ’the MICAT boss pointed out.
‘‘We encourage the public to avoid speculation, propaganda and misinformation and instead allow the facts to emerge through the work of the investigators,’’ he uttered.
According to him, ‘‘when they reach their conclusions and determine who bears responsibility for the drugs that entered this country, and if they decide to bring charges against those individuals, the public will see how the matter proceeds.’’
The Minister urged Liberians to give the legal and security authorities the necessary time and space to thoroughly investigate the 237.6-kilogram cocaine shipment.
He intoned that because the seizure involves international networks, the investigation extends beyond Liberia’s borders and includes collaboration with foreign partners, making internal manipulation impossible.
Minister Piah assured the public that the government is committed to a professional process to avoid repeating the mistakes of past regimes where high-profile drug suspects ultimately walked free.
He dismissed mounting public and political rumours regarding a state-level cover-up, underscoring that the Joint Security Forces are following the evidence wherever it leads.
Minister Piah stated this will not be a repeat or replica of previous cases, stressing it is going to be different.
‘‘There appears to be a desperate attempt by some people to frame the narrative and create confusion. We will not participate in that. Those who committed wrongdoing during previous periods should remember their actions, but this government will not be drawn into sharing responsibility for their mistakes,’’ the government Spokesperson mentioned.
Meanwhile, Minister Piah averred that the government remains committed to allowing the investigative process to run its course.
‘‘Once the investigation is concluded and accountability is established, the appropriate legal actions will be taken,’’ adding “This US$19 million drug case will not be handled the way the past government handled cases. Those responsible will be identified, prosecuted, and brought to justice”
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