MONROVIA, Liberia — The Ministry of Justice has exonerated Liberia National Police Inspector General Col. Gregory O.W. Coleman of allegations linking him to an alleged bribery scheme connected to the ongoing US$317.68 million transnational drug investigation, while ordering the prosecution of a police officer found to have improperly received money.
In a statement issued Saturday, the Ministry said an internal investigation was launched after allegations surfaced that money had been offered in an attempt to secure the release of individuals in police custody.
According to the Ministry, the investigation confirmed that Officer Johnny Dean received and retained money delivered to him but failed to report the incident to his superiors or to members of the Joint National Security Investigative Task Force. However, investigators found no evidence that Inspector General Coleman received, authorized, directed, or had prior knowledge of the money.
“The investigation found no evidence that the Inspector General of Police received, authorized, directed, or had prior knowledge of the money. Accordingly, allegations implicating the Inspector General are false and without factual basis,” the Ministry stated.
As a result of the findings, Officer Dean has been removed from the Joint National Security Investigative Task Force, relieved of his duties, and will face both disciplinary action and criminal prosecution in accordance with Liberian law.
The Ministry reaffirmed the Government’s zero-tolerance policy on corruption and misconduct, stressing that the ongoing narcotics investigation will proceed independently and professionally.
It further maintained that no individual, regardless of office, influence, nationality, or political affiliation, would be protected from prosecution where credible evidence establishes criminal responsibility.
The Ministry also commended members of the Joint National Security Investigative Task Force for their professionalism and commitment to the rule of law, while urging the public to avoid spreading unverified information and allow investigators to complete their work without interference.
The statement emphasized that public confidence in the justice system must be built on facts, evidence, and due process rather than speculation or misinformation.
