MONROVIA – The Liberia National Police (LNP) has removed Deputy Commissioner for Crime Services Johnny Dean from his position as investigators probe allegations that he accepted US$10,000 in connection with the ongoing investigation into Liberia’s massive US$317.68 million cocaine seizure.
Police Inspector General Gregory O. W. Coleman announced that Dean was relieved of his duties with immediate effect after investigators uncovered allegations that he compromised the integrity of the narcotics investigation.
Coleman clarified that while Dean was not implicated in the alleged drug trafficking operation itself, investigators found that he allegedly provided comfort and assistance to suspects already in police custody, raising concerns about possible interference with the investigation.
According to the Police Inspector General, Dean admitted receiving the money and has since been interdicted and turned over to the Professional Standards Division for an administrative investigation.
Coleman said a separate criminal investigation will be launched if evidence establishes that criminal offenses were committed.
“The investigation will follow the evidence wherever it leads,” Coleman stated, stressing that no law enforcement officer would be protected from accountability because of rank, position, or influence.
The Police Inspector General announced that the Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence and Criminal Investigation, currently serving in an interim capacity, has been directed to immediately assume responsibility for Dean’s duties while investigations continue.
The disciplinary action against Dean comes as authorities intensify investigations into one of Liberia’s largest-ever narcotics seizures, involving approximately 3,971 kilograms of suspected cocaine recovered in Duazon, Margibi County.
The Government of Liberia has estimated the street value of the seized narcotics at approximately US$317.68 million, while Coleman disclosed that the value could rise to nearly US$400 million after distribution on the illegal market.
The massive seizure has triggered broader questions about how such a large quantity of suspected cocaine entered Liberia and whether individuals within the country’s institutions attempted to interfere with the investigation.
Coleman warned that any person found connected to the alleged trafficking network or involved in obstructing justice would face arrest and prosecution under Liberian law.
“No one will be shielded,” the Police Inspector General emphasized, reaffirming the LNP’s commitment to conducting an impartial investigation.
The latest development represents one of the most significant internal disciplinary actions involving a senior police official since the cocaine investigation began.
The narcotics case has been described as involving a possible sophisticated transnational drug trafficking network, with investigations continuing to identify additional suspects, determine the full scope of the operation, and establish whether any other individuals assisted or attempted to undermine the investigation.
The Liberia National Police has assured the public that the investigation will proceed without fear or favor and that all individuals found responsible will be held accountable.
