Monrovia, Liberia — Officer-in-Charge of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), Fitzgerald T. M. Biago, has temporarily stepped aside from his official functions as an independent investigation gets underway into allegations involving him.
Biago announced his decision in a statement, saying he requested to temporarily recuse himself from the functions of LDEA Officer-in-Charge while the allegation is investigated.
The move comes amid allegations surrounding a vehicle reportedly linked to an alleged drug-trafficking organization, with the matter being referred to as the “Cartel Pickup” allegations.
Biago, however, has categorically denied any wrongdoing. He said he has never received a vehicle, gift, or benefit from a drug trafficker or anyone acting on behalf of a drug-trafficking organization.
According to him, his decision to step aside should not be interpreted as an admission of guilt but as a measure to protect the integrity of the investigation and prevent any perception that he could interfere with the process.
“My decision is not an admission of wrongdoing; it is an act of institutional responsibility intended to protect the integrity of the investigation, prevent any perception of interference, and preserve public confidence in the LDEA,” Biago stated.
He further said that public institutions must be held to the same standards of accountability they demand from others.
Biago pledged to fully cooperate with the investigation and expressed confidence that an impartial, transparent, and evidence-based process would establish the facts surrounding the allegation.
“The institution must always remain greater than the individual,” he said.
The investigation is expected to determine the facts surrounding the allegations, while Biago remains entitled to the presumption of innocence unless evidence establishes otherwise.
