IPNEWS: The Ministry of Justice has suspended the Assistant Director of Prisons for Operations, Mr. Lawrence Bohlen, pending the outcome of an official investigation into allegations surrounding a missing portion of a rice donation intended for inmates at the Monrovia Central Prison (MCP).
The suspension follows the circulation of a leaked audio recording that is currently under review by the Ministry. Preliminary findings from internal assessments point to discrepancies involving a donation of 100 bags of 25-kilogram rice made by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai as a Christmas goodwill gesture to inmates at the nation’s largest detention facility.
According to official records, the full consignment of 100 bags was reportedly delivered to the Monrovia Central Prison. However, authorities say only 75 bags have so far been accounted for, leaving 25 bags unaccounted for and raising concerns about possible mishandling or diversion of the donation.
In response, the Ministry of Justice has constituted a special investigative panel to conduct a thorough and independent inquiry into the matter. The panel is chaired by the Chairman of the Independent Parole Board, Mr. Standley Cooper, and is mandated to establish the facts, determine responsibility, and make appropriate recommendations.
The investigative panel is expected to submit its findings and recommendations to the Ministry within two weeks.
The Ministry of Justice reiterated the Government of Liberia’s firm commitment to accountability, transparency, and the protection of public resources. It emphasized that all donations meant for inmates must be properly received, managed, and utilized for their intended purpose.
The Ministry further assured the public that appropriate administrative and legal actions will be taken upon the conclusion of the investigation, in keeping with the law and established procedures.
