MONROVIA – The Asset Recovery and Property Retrieval Taskforce (AREPT) has expressed shock and strong disapproval over the receipt of a Christmas and New Year gift card sent to its office by the Modern Development and Management Cooperation (MDMC), a company currently indicted by the Taskforce for alleged acts of corruption.
In a press release issued on Friday, January 9, 2026, and signed by Joseph F. Daniels, Public Relations Officer of AREPT, the Taskforce said it was deeply concerned by MDMC’s action, describing it as inappropriate and unacceptable given the company’s current legal status.
According to the release, AREPT noted that since its establishment nearly two years ago, it has never received gifts, cards, or seasonal greetings from MDMC or any other institution under investigation or indictment. The Taskforce stated that MDMC’s decision to send such a gift at this time raises serious ethical and legal concerns.
“It is therefore deeply concerning that MDMC, acting through its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. John S. Youboty Sr., who is being held to account for corruption-related charges, would attempt to initiate such contact while the matter remains before the courts,” the Taskforce said.
AREPT described the gesture as an improper attempt at inducement and an effort by an accused institution to establish cordial relations with the Taskforce despite its case being pending before the judiciary. The release warned that such conduct undermines the integrity of the legal process and violates basic principles of accountability.
In response, AREPT announced that the Christmas and New Year gift card has been formally returned to MDMC. The Taskforce further disclosed that the company has been given a 72-hour ultimatum to state reasons for what it described as a violation, particularly while company officials remain indicted and await court proceedings.
“The Taskforce reiterates that it is not in the business of receiving gifts from the public,” the release emphasized, adding that any such gestures from parties under investigation or indictment are viewed as attempts at inducement and will not be tolerated under any circumstance.
AREPT clarified that it was not established to exchange pleasantries or receive seasonal gestures, stressing that its sole mandate is to investigate, prosecute, and recover public assets stolen or unlawfully acquired, in strict accordance with Liberian law.
The Taskforce also issued a stern warning to MDMC, all other indicted persons or institutions, those under investigation, and the general public. It cautioned that any further attempts to provide gifts, cards, or other inducements to AREPT or its officials will result in immediate legal action.
AREPT concluded by reaffirming its independence and resolve, stating that it remains “resolute, independent, and uncompromising” in the discharge of its mandate and will continue to act in the best interest of the Liberian people.
