MONROVIA — Former Deputy Foreign Minister Themal Duncan Sawyer and several others on Friday, November 7, 2025, sent to the Monrovia Central Prison following accusations of money laundering linked to an ongoing investigation by the Assets Recovery Taskforce. The case centers on the alleged disappearance of US$800,000 that was allocated for the renovation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
According to the Taskforce, the funds, entrusted to MDMC, a firm reportedly connected to businessman John Youboty, and handled in part by Madam Sawyer, cannot be accounted for. Investigators say the lack of documentation and the unexplained movement of the money triggered a financial probe that has now escalated into a criminal matter. The Taskforce notes that preliminary findings show serious inconsistencies in how the renovation funds were managed, prompting immediate legal action.
Authorities confirmed that Madam Sawyer and the other individuals implicated were transferred to Monrovia Central Prison late this week as the investigation deepens. The Taskforce maintains that their detention is necessary to prevent interference with the inquiry, which is expected to uncover additional details about what officials describe as a broader money laundering scheme involving senior-level operatives.
Sources close to the investigation say auditors are reviewing bank statements, contract approvals, and financial transfers connected to the Ministry’s renovation project. The government has emphasized that no official, regardless of rank or political affiliation, will be shielded from accountability.
The Assets Recovery Taskforce has urged the public to remain alert and cooperate with ongoing anti-corruption efforts by reporting suspicious financial activities. As the probe widens, Liberians await further revelations into what could become one of the most high-profile financial scandals within the country’s foreign service sector.
