Margibi county – Liberia Airport Authority (LAA) has begun to probe into allegations of extortion and intimation involving security personnel at the Roberts International Airport (RIA).
This move comes following reports from some media institutions accusing the RIA security personnel of engaging in robbery and intimidation.
It was also reported that passengers were being forced to pay a substantial sum of money to RIA security personnel before clearing their luggage, something many travelers described as “robbery”.
In a release issued, the Management of the LAA assured the public of a thorough inquiry into the allegations. “Upon receiving these serious allegations, the Liberia Airport Authority has initiated a full-scale investigation to ascertain the claims thoroughly”, the release is quoted.
The LAA also disclosed it has partnered with other government law enforcement institutions to ensure a comprehensive review of the circumstances surrounding the allegations.
Encouraging testimonies from whistleblowers, the LAA asserted, “We encourage anyone who has experienced or witnessed any form of misconduct at the airport to come forward. Confidentiality will be maintained for individuals wishing to report their experiences. The LAA is committed to ensuring that all reports of misconduct are taken seriously and addressed with the utmost urgency.
The integrity and safety of our airports, as well as the well-being of passengers and staff, remain our highest priority”.
These daunting allegations come at a time when the Liberia Airport Authority is exerting efforts to encourage other airlines’ flights operation in Liberia.
On November 30, 2024, Liberians witnessed the resumption of the Ethiopian Airlines flight operations in Liberia, which stands as a major boost to the country’s aviation sector.
