MONROVIA, LIBERIA – A top Liberian official responsible for fighting human trafficking has been charged with the very crime he was appointed to combat. Henry McGill, Director for Operations at the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Task Force Liberia, has been investigated and is now facing prosecution for allegedly exploiting and trafficking vulnerable individuals.
McGill, 38, is accused of deceiving victims under the guise of securing opportunities abroad. Police reports indicate that he recruited multiple individuals, including Francis N. Johnson, Albertha Lolo, and Doris Siah Tamba, and facilitated their travel for purposes that turned out to be exploitative. Authorities say he successfully sent Tamba to Oman, where she became a victim of forced labor and abuse.
Investigators uncovered a scheme in which McGill allegedly collected $700 from each victim as processing fees, totaling $2,100. His role reportedly involved organizing travel documents, coordinating transportation, and misleading individuals about the nature of their overseas employment. The investigation also suggests he was preparing to send additional people abroad when he was arrested.
McGill’s actions came under further scrutiny after he attempted to flee the country while under investigation. After his first arrest, his passport was seized to prevent his departure. However, records show he obtained a new passport in September 2022, raising concerns that he was plotting an escape. His previous passport had expired in April 2023, strengthening suspicions about his intentions.
