LNP Relieves Crime Services Boss Over Alleged US$10,000 Bribery in Major Cocaine Investigation
MONROVIA – The Liberia National Police (LNP) has relieved its Deputy Commissioner for Crime Services, Johnny Dean, of his duties with immediate effect after he allegedly accepted US$10,000 in connection with the investigation into what authorities describe as one of Liberia’s largest cocaine seizures.
Inspector General of Police Gregory O. W. Coleman announced the decision Thursday, saying preliminary findings indicate that Dean allegedly accepted money from individuals linked to the case, thereby compromising the integrity of the ongoing investigation.
IG Coleman clarified that, at this stage, Dean is not accused of participating in the drug trafficking operation itself. However, investigators believe he allegedly provided comfort and assistance to suspects already in police custody, actions that undermined the police investigation.
According to the Police Chief, Dean admitted to receiving the money during questioning. Based on that admission, he has been immediately interdicted and referred to the LNP’s Professional Standards Division to face an administrative investigation.
IG Coleman further disclosed that a parallel criminal investigation will proceed and that criminal charges will be pursued if evidence establishes that Dean violated Liberia’s criminal laws.
“The Liberia National Police remains committed to accountability, integrity, and professionalism,” Coleman said, emphasizing that no officer, regardless of rank or position, will be shielded from the full force of the law.
To ensure that the high-profile drug investigation continues without interruption, the Inspector General announced that the Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence and Criminal Investigation (Interim) has been directed to immediately assume Dean’s responsibilities pending the outcome of the investigations.
IG Coleman also warned that anyone found to have played a role in the alleged misconduct or in the broader cocaine trafficking case would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with Liberian law.
He reaffirmed the LNP’s resolve to pursue the investigation without fear or favor, assuring the Liberian public that investigators will follow the evidence wherever it leads and hold every individual found culpable fully accountable.
The latest development comes amid an intensified investigation into the suspected multi-million-dollar cocaine seizure in Duazon, Margibi County, a case that has drawn significant public attention and renewed calls for stronger accountability within Liberia’s security institutions.
