By Staff Writer | Smart News Liberia
MONROVIA – Liberian senators are calling for the suspension of GLS Menzies’ cargo-handling concession at Roberts International Airport (RIA), pending the outcome of an ongoing investigation into the US$19.2 million cocaine seizure case.
The joint communication submitted to the Liberian Senate urges the Plenary to advise the Executive Branch to temporarily halt GLS Menzies operations at the airport, citing concerns over the integrity of the investigation and the handling of national cargo security.
The lawmakers argue that the seriousness of the narcotics discovery at the GLS Menzies warehouse at RIA on June 8, 2026, requires precautionary action to preserve evidence and safeguard public confidence in Liberia’s aviation and trade systems.
According to the communication, the Joint National Security Investigative Task Force has named GLS Menzies General Manager Paul J. King and Security Manager Philip Yoh as persons of interest in the ongoing cocaine investigation.
The senators emphasized that when senior officials of a concessionaire responsible for cargo handling operations are themselves under investigation, it raises serious questions about oversight and operational integrity. They maintained, however, that the proposed suspension is not an admission of guilt but a preventive measure pending the conclusion of investigations.
“The integrity of Liberia’s cargo handling system must be protected while investigations are ongoing,” the communication noted, stressing that such action is necessary to maintain confidence among international aviation and trade partners.
The proposal reflects growing legislative pressure linked to the high-profile cocaine investigation, which has already triggered multiple inquiries and intensified public scrutiny of airport security operations at Roberts International Airport.
If adopted, the recommendation would temporarily suspend GLS Menzies’ cargo-handling concession until authorities complete their investigation and determine whether any wrongdoing occurred within its operations.
The development also underscores increasing legislative involvement in the case, as lawmakers seek to balance accountability with the need to avoid interference in ongoing investigative processes.
Senators Abraham Darius Dillon and Saah H. Joseph called for swift consideration of the proposal, arguing that decisive action is necessary to protect Liberia’s international reputation and strengthen confidence in its port and aviation security systems.
The US$19.2 million cocaine seizure, one of the largest in Liberia’s recent history, continues to generate institutional scrutiny and public concern over how such a large quantity of illicit drugs passed through key airport security channels.
