By Staff Writer | Smart News Liberia
MONROVIA – Liberian Renaissance Office Incorporated (LIROI) Executive Director George Wisner has publicly thrown his support behind investigative journalist Rodney Sieh, alleging that powerful drug trafficking networks and their backers are attempting to intimidate and silence voices demanding accountability in the ongoing US$19.2 million cocaine bust investigation.
In a statement released Monday, July 13, 2026, on his Facebook page, Wisner praised Sieh’s reporting and claimed that individuals connected to drug trafficking networks were attempting to intimidate and discredit voices demanding transparency in one of Liberia’s most high-profile criminal investigations.
“The Liberian Renaissance Office Incorporated (LIROI) stands firmly with you,” Wisner said. “We know the drug cartels and their backers are pouring money and influence into silencing voices that defend the public interest.”
Although Wisner did not identify any individuals or organizations allegedly involved, he claimed that coordinated efforts were underway to undermine journalists and other advocates calling for accountability in the case.
“Do not let their coordinated attacks, intimidation, misinformation, and attempts to discredit your patriotic work shake your resolve,” he stated. “Your courage is a beacon for all Liberians who believe in justice and truth.”
Wisner’s remarks come amid growing public scrutiny of the government’s handling of the June 8, 2026, seizure of cocaine valued at approximately US$19.2 million at Roberts International Airport (RIA). The case has generated mounting calls from opposition politicians, civil society organizations, lawmakers, and sections of the public for an independent and transparent investigation.
The LIROI Executive Director pledged that his organization would continue supporting efforts aimed at exposing those responsible for the alleged trafficking operation, regardless of their political influence or social status.
“Together, we will remain unyielding,” Wisner declared. “We will expose their criminal networks and bring them to justice, no matter their status or standing in society. History will honor those who stood strong.”
He concluded his message with a direct show of solidarity for Sieh, stating, “LIROI has your back. Liberia has your back. Stay the course.”
Wisner’s statement adds to the growing chorus of voices demanding greater transparency and accountability in the government’s investigation into the cocaine seizure. Critics have questioned the pace of the investigation and called for authorities to identify and prosecute not only those accused of handling the drugs but also any individuals who may have financed, facilitated, or protected the alleged trafficking network.
The Boakai administration has maintained that the investigation remains active, while law enforcement authorities say efforts are continuing to apprehend all suspects and determine the full scope of the alleged transnational drug trafficking operation.
Wisner’s allegations that drug cartels are attempting to influence or intimidate critics have not been independently verified, and he did not provide evidence or identify those allegedly responsible. Nonetheless, his statement is likely to intensify public debate over the integrity and transparency of the ongoing investigation into one of Liberia’s largest cocaine seizures.
