The Liberia National Police (LNP) has immediately relieved Officer Johnny Bolar Dean of his duties due to allegations of compromising the ongoing investigation into a recent US$317 million cocaine bust. He has been referred to the LNP’s Professional Standards Division for further investigation.
During a news conference on Thursday, July 23, 2026, Police Inspector General Gregory O.W. Coleman stated that Officer Dean, also identified by Police Code 106, is accused of accepting a US$10,000 bribe to provide preferential treatment to suspects linked to the case who are currently in police custody.
Sources indicate that Deputy Commissioner of Police Johnny Bolar Dean was dismissed by then-Police Director Chris Massaquoi after an investigation conducted by Director Al Karley of the Major Crimes Unit. At that time, Gregory O.W. Coleman was serving as the Assistant Director of Police Unit 104.
Afterward, Johnny Bolar Dean was recommended by Gregory O.W. Coleman to the Liberia Agricultural Company (LAC) to serve as the Superintendent of Security during the early stage of the George Weah-led government. Dean was subsequently reinstated by Coleman following his appointment by President Joseph N. Boakai and confirmation by the Liberian Senate.
On Monday, July 20, 2026, several persons of interest were arrested. Their interrogations led investigators to a property in the VOA Community along the RIA Highway in Duazon. Justice Minister Oswald Tweh reported that acting on a search warrant, security forces uncovered 3,971 kilograms of processed plates of suspected cocaine on Tuesday, July 21, at 9:00 a.m. The drugs have been secured as evidence and are awaiting laboratory testing.
The Attorney General confirmed the arrest of two foreign nationals: one Serbian citizen and another with dual Colombian and Spanish citizenship. Their identities are being withheld to protect the integrity of the investigation.
Security forces also seized sophisticated equipment allegedly used in the trafficking operation, which included diving suits, a firearm, GPS devices, a drone, and Starlink satellite internet equipment. All items are currently undergoing forensic examination. “The investigation has revealed an organized, complex, and well-funded narcotics trafficking network with deep operational roots in Liberia,” the Minister stated.
