MONROVIA – The Office of Senator Momo Tarnuekollie Cyrus has rejected recent media reports and public discussions linking him to the ongoing investigation into the seizure of narcotics valued at approximately US$19 million, arguing that such claims are based on assumptions rather than verified facts.
In a statement issued Tuesday, July 7, 2026, Senator Cyrus’ office said attempts to associate him with the drug investigation because of the contractual relationship between SEGAL Incorporated and GLS Mengies misrepresent the operational structure of the private security company and the responsibilities of state institutions involved in the case.
The Office maintained that Senator Cyrus resigned from his position as General Manager of SEGAL Incorporated immediately after assuming public office and has since had no involvement in the company’s daily management or operational activities.
According to the statement, SEGAL continues to function as an independent private security firm under its own management, leadership and administrative structure, with its operations guided by existing laws, contractual obligations and professional standards.
The Office explained that SEGAL, which was co-founded by Senator Cyrus in 2006, has operated for nearly two decades within Liberia’s private security sector, providing security services to government institutions, international organizations, diplomatic missions, commercial entities, mining companies, non-governmental organizations and private clients.
It argued that the Senator’s previous association with the company should not be interpreted as a conflict with his current public responsibilities, stressing that ownership history and operational management are separate issues.
“Senator Cyrus formally resigned from his position as General Manager of SEGAL Incorporated immediately upon assuming public office. Since entering public service, he has neither participated in the day-to-day management of the company nor exercised operational authority over its affairs,” the statement said.
The Office further clarified that SEGAL’s assignment at Roberts International Airport, including its security services connected to GLS Mengies, is limited to perimeter and external security duties.
It stated that the company’s officers are responsible for securing designated areas, controlling access to authorized locations, conducting patrols and protecting facilities against unauthorized entry or external security threats.
The statement emphasized that SEGAL does not perform functions associated with cargo inspection, customs clearance, narcotics detection or criminal investigations.
“SEGAL does not inspect cargo, verify cargo documentation, operate cargo scanners, inspect freight containers, clear imports or exports, supervise customs procedures, perform narcotics detection, direct airport intelligence operations or investigate criminal activities,” the Office stated.
According to Senator Cyrus’ office, those responsibilities fall under government institutions and airport authorities with legal mandates covering customs administration, aviation security, immigration, narcotics enforcement, airport operations and criminal investigations.
The statement argued that a private security company providing contracted services to a client cannot legally or reasonably be held responsible for alleged criminal conduct involving that client or another party unless evidence establishes direct involvement.
The Office accused some individuals of attempting to politicize an active criminal investigation by promoting narratives that have not been supported by established facts.
It maintained that such speculation could distract attention from the central objective of identifying all individuals and entities that may have played a role in the alleged drug trafficking operation.
The Office said Senator Cyrus remains committed to ensuring that the investigation proceeds without interference and that anyone found connected to the alleged criminal enterprise faces the consequences of the law.
“No person should be regarded as being above the law. If credible evidence implicates any individual, institution or entity, the law must be allowed to take its full course. Political influence, economic standing or institutional affiliation must never shield anyone from accountability,” the statement added.
The Senator’s office also highlighted his experience in Liberia’s security sector, stating that he has spent more than 25 years working in areas involving national security, intelligence, diplomacy and institutional reform.
As Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Defense, Intelligence, Security and Veteran Affairs, the office said Senator Cyrus has consistently advocated for stronger security institutions, improved accountability and professional standards within Liberia’s security architecture, according to the statement.
The Office said his role in the ongoing cocaine investigation remains focused on ensuring oversight, transparency and accountability within the national security system.
It noted that Senator Cyrus continues to serve as Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Defense, Intelligence, Security and Veteran Affairs and also works alongside President Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga Lawrence as Co-Chair of the Senate Committee of the Whole, which is responsible for reviewing matters before the Senate.
The Office assured the Liberian public, international partners, diplomatic community and civil society organizations that Senator Cyrus has not interfered, directly or indirectly, with the ongoing investigation.
It said his interest remains ensuring that the truth emerges through lawful procedures and that justice is pursued based on evidence and due process.
“Senator Cyrus has absolutely nothing to hide and has never interfered, directly or indirectly, with the ongoing investigation. His singular interest remains ensuring that the truth is established through lawful processes and that justice is served wherever the evidence leads,” the statement said.
The Office further urged the public to allow facts, evidence and fairness to guide judgment as authorities continue their investigation into the US$19 million cocaine seizure.
