Monrovia— Ibrahima Traore, a Liberian-based-in-Spain international football agent and sports developer, has categorically denied allegations linking him to Liberia’s seizure of approximately US$317 million worth of cocaine, describing the claims as false, misleading and unsupported by credible evidence.
By Jaheim Tumu
In a statement issued on August 6, 2026, Traore said he recently became aware of media reports, talk-show discussions and online commentary attempting to associate his name with the massive drug seizure.
“I categorically deny any involvement in this matter,” Traore said, insisting that he has never participated in, facilitated, financed or otherwise been connected to the criminal activities being alleged against him.
He said any attempt to associate him with the cocaine case was not supported by credible evidence and urged the media and the public to distinguish between speculation and verified facts.
Traore, who said he has lived and worked in Spain for nearly three decades, said he built his career through what he described as legitimate international business, professional integrity and ethical conduct across several countries.
He said the allegations were particularly troubling because of the reputation he has built over more than 27 years of professional activity.
“Like anyone who has devoted a lifetime to building an honest career, I find it deeply troubling to see my name associated with criminal allegations that have absolutely no factual basis,” he said.
Calls for Independent Investigation
Traore said he welcomes any lawful, independent and impartial investigation into the allegations, provided such an inquiry is based on verifiable facts rather than rumors, speculation or sensational reporting.
“I have nothing to hide and every interest in ensuring that the truth is established,” he said.
At the same time, Traore warned that he would take steps to protect his reputation and legitimate business interests, saying he reserves all legal rights against individuals or media organizations that knowingly publish or continue circulating what he considers false, defamatory or malicious allegations.
He also appealed to journalists, commentators and the public to uphold accuracy, fairness and responsible reporting, particularly when allegations have the potential to seriously damage an individual’s reputation.
Traore invoked the presumption of innocence and due process, saying both principles should guide public discourse surrounding the cocaine investigation.
Clarifies Relationship with Boakai’s Son
Traore also addressed reports concerning his relationship with Joseph Nyuma Boakai Jr., commonly known as “Jojo,” saying attempts to portray his previous comments about the younger Boakai as contradictory were inaccurate.
According to Traore, his professional activities have involved coordinating and facilitating meetings among government officials, sports administrators, diplomatic representatives and international organizations.
He said this included facilitating engagements involving Liberia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports and institutions such as the Real Madrid Foundation.
Traore stressed that such professional coordination should not be interpreted as evidence of a private relationship.
“When I stated that I do not maintain a personal relationship or private conversations with Mr. Boakai Jr., I meant exactly that,” he said. “We do not share a personal friendship outside official or professional engagements.”
He accused unnamed media outlets of deliberately distorting his comments by portraying routine institutional facilitation as evidence of a secret personal alliance.
Defends Professional Record
Traore described himself as an international football agent and sports developer based in Spain, with years of experience identifying young football talent, arranging trials with European clubs, negotiating player contracts and facilitating international transfers.
He said his work has also included training coaches and technical staff and supporting the long-term development of emerging athletes.
According to Traore, his professional activities have helped establish sporting partnerships between Africa and Europe.
He said he was born in Liberia and left the country as a teenager during the civil conflict, initially relocating to Côte d’Ivoire before eventually settling in Europe and establishing his professional career.
Traore said he has since developed legitimate business interests in Spain, Germany, the Netherlands, the United States, Liberia, Guinea and Côte d’Ivoire.
“Everything I have built has been achieved through lawful enterprise, perseverance, and respect for the laws of the countries in which I operate,” he said.
Traore maintained that his professional record reflects what he described as a lifelong commitment to integrity, ethical business practices and international cooperation.
“False allegations may generate headlines, but they do not change the truth,” he said, expressing confidence that facts and evidence would ultimately prevail.
His statement comes amid intense public scrutiny surrounding Liberia’s ongoing investigation into the seizure of nearly four tons of cocaine in the VOA community in Paynesville, a consignment authorities have valued at approximately US$317.68 million.
