IPNEWS: The authorities at the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC). Says in an effort to provide update on the ongoing investigations into alleged financial fraud within the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC), states that indeed these investigations were officially initiated under the authority of Monrovia City Mayor, Honorable John-Charuk Siafa.
However, it initial intention was to refrain from public comment until preliminary findings were compiled, but increasing distortion and misrepresentation of the facts surrounding these inquiries has necessitated it’s response.
“Although the sensitive nature of the ongoing investigations prevents us from disclosing all details at this time, we can confirm that the Mayor’s probe has uncovered significant fraudulent activities. These include alleged fake deposits into MCC accounts, impersonation and extortion schemes, and unlawful revenue collection practices, all of which have resulted in considerable financial losses impacting the city’s operational efficiency.”
“One specific case involves the submission of fraudulent bank deposit slips to the MCC Revenue Director. These slips indicated payments in both USD and LD from four businesses into the MCC’s Ecobank account, leading to requests for official MCC receipts. However, our investigation revealed that these funds were never credited to the MCC account, a discrepancy confirmed by the bank slips themselves, one of which shared a serial number with another, raising immediate suspicion. The implicated staff member was suspended on April 16, 2025, and the matter is currently under investigation by the Liberia National Police.”
*Another investigation uncovered alleged impersonation, falsification, and extortion involving five MCC employees. Through meticulous investigation and cross-analysis of statements, it was determined that counterfeit Solid Waste Inspection letters were being issued to businesses prior to the official distribution of such letters from the Director General of Environmental Health and Sanitation. Further investigation revealed that on January 17, 2025, two of these employees were apprehended separately while distributing fake inspection letters with the apparent intention of extorting money from business operators. These employees have also been suspended and are being investigated by the Police.”
“Furthermore, the MCC has been addressing allegations of payroll theft. Over recent months, management received multiple complaints from employees reporting unauthorized deductions from their salaries. An initial internal investigation confirmed fraudulent manipulation of the payroll system by individuals within the finance department. This investigation also indicated that these individuals were allegedly receiving extra monthly salary payments through a fraudulent payroll, alongside the illegal deductions from other staff members. The internal audit revealed that between January and April 2025, approximately LRD 2,161,828.17 and USD 21,000 were illicitly withdrawn from the institution’s accounts. The involved staff members have been suspended, and both the Liberian National Police and our Internal Audit Department were immediately notified to conduct thorough investigations.” A statement from MCC read.
meanwhile, the Monrovia City Corporation wishes to unequivocally state that any information to the contrary is unfounded, inaccurate, and a deliberate misrepresentation of the facts regarding the situation at the City Corporation.
“It is important to note that Mayor Siafa has intensified efforts over the past several months to combat reported theft and corruption within the Corporation. These reform initiatives have unfortunately been met with considerable resistance and misleading media narratives seemingly designed to distract from the ongoing process.”
“Mayor Siafa has affirmed his commitment to rectifying these issues, stating, “These investigations underscore our unwavering dedication to upholding integrity, honesty, and responsible public financial management. We will not tolerate any actions that defraud the city and its residents.” A statement from the MCC Press and Public Affairs conclude.
