By Lewis S. Teh
MONROVIA, July 24, 2026 — Movement for Progressive Change political leader Simeon Freeman has called for the replacement and investigation of officials managing Liberia’s seaport and airport, alleging that recent drug seizures indicate serious security breaches at the country’s ports of entry.
In a statement issued in Monrovia, Freeman alleged that Liberia was being used as a storage and transit point for illegal drugs destined for Europe and other markets.
“The cartel runs Liberia’s seaport and airport,” Freeman alleged, without presenting evidence to substantiate the claim.
He questioned how foreign suspects reportedly linked to recent drug seizures entered Liberia, secured accommodation and allegedly transported large quantities of drugs into private residences.
“Who granted these suspects visas? Who rented the house for them? How did the drugs enter Liberia, and where are their mobile phones?” Freeman asked.
The MPC leader referenced the recent US$19.2 million cocaine case and other drug-related developments, which he claimed raised questions about the handling of investigations by state authorities.
Freeman argued that although intercepting illegal drugs is important, reports that narcotics had allegedly entered the country, cleared security checkpoints and were stored in private homes suggested that Liberia’s ports had been compromised.
“The fact that drugs were imported, cleared and stored in private homes for onward export suggests that our entry ports have been massively compromised,” he said.
He also called for a review of the government’s relationship with the company managing operations at the Freeport of Monrovia. Freeman further cited unverified reports that additional drugs could be stored at undisclosed locations in Monrovia.
“Clearly, the leadership of Liberia’s seaport and airport must be replaced and turned over for investigation,” he said.
Freeman did not identify specific port officials or provide documentary evidence linking port managers to drug trafficking.
Authorities at the National Port Authority, Liberia Airport Authority and other agencies named or implicated by Freeman’s allegations did not immediately respond to the claims.
Liberian authorities have announced several major drug seizures and arrests in recent months. Government officials have repeatedly pledged to strengthen security at ports of entry, investigate suspected trafficking networks and prosecute those involved.
