In a significant move to combat corruption and promote accountability, the Asset Recovery and Property Retrieval Taskforce (AREPT) has announced the indictment of several high-profile figures, including former government officials and business guru, on charges of financial impropriety and corruption. Former Executive Mansion Chief of Protocol Nora Finda Bondoo, former Deputy Minister Thelma Duncan Sawyer, former Third Secretary to the Liberia's permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York.
Pamelia Anita Jallah, CEO of MDMC, John Youboty, and forty other associates have been indicted. Addressing a news conference on Friday, AREPT Chairman, Cllr. Edward Kla Martin, noted that the indictments are the result of thorough investigations into allegations of money laundering, theft of property, and criminal facilitation. The cases involve two separate investigations: one into the activities of former Chief of Protocol Nora Finda Bundoo and associates, and another into the contractual agreements between MDMC Express Incorporated and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented by Deputy Minister Thelma Duncan Sawyer. "We follow the evidence, and wherever that evidence leads, we go," Cllr. Martin emphasized. "Our duty is to the people of Liberia and to the laws of this Republic.
These investigations take time because we are determined to get it right and to ensure that when the suspects stand trial, the evidence speaks for itself." AREPT chairman Cllr. Edward Kla Martin also noted that an investigation into former chief of protocol Bundoo's activities revealed a pattern of suspicious transactions and acquisitions amounting to millions of dollars. According to Cllr. Martin, "Before Madam Bundoo took public office, there were no records showing significant business holdings or major assets under her name. However, within just a few years (2020-2023) in office, her financial activities multiplied beyond explanation."
Cllr. Martin added that the investigation also uncovered several high-value assets acquired by Madam Bundoo during and after her time in public office, including multiple real estate properties and vehicles. The indictment alleges that Madam Bundoo, Pamelia Anita Jallah, and associates used their positions to accumulate wealth and assets through illicit means. Cllr. Martin disclosed that the investigation linked MDMC Express Incorporated to corruption, revealing that the investigation found that the company had received full payment for a renovation contract at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs but only completed about 56% of the work. The indictment alleges that the company and its officials engaged in theft of property and criminal facilitation.
"Let us be clear; this is not just about money, figures, or titles," Cllr. Martin stated. "Every dollar that is stolen, every asset illegally taken, is a resource denied to our people. That money could have built classrooms, provided medicine, improved roads, or paid civil servants. These crimes rob Liberian children of a better future and weaken the very foundation of our country." AREPT has called on the government to immediately disengage from all contractual arrangements with MDMC Express Incorporated and to take swift action to recover stolen assets.
The taskforce has assured the public that its work is guided by the principles of patriotism and accountability, and that no individual or entity is above the law. The AREPT chairman emphasized that the taskforce's work is ongoing and that more indictments are expected in the coming months. He urged the public to remain patient and supportive, noting that justice is not instant, but rather built step by step through lawful and careful work.
"Today's indictments send a clear message that Liberia is changing course," he said. "Those who misuse public resources will face the full weight of the law, and those who serve with honesty will be protected and respected. And to those who still believe they are untouchable, the law will find you." The indictments are part of the Liberian government's broader efforts to combat corruption.
Author: Victor Quaye
