Liberian Grand Jury Indicts Port Director

The Liberian National Port Authority’s managing director was indicted by the Monteserrado County Grand Jury. Matilda Parker was suspended in April, and faces charges of economic sabotage, theft of property and criminal conspiracy. Parker was arrested July 21st and released on $1 million bond. She has been accused of awarding a falsified wreck removal contract to Denmar Enterprises valued at $800,000.  

Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf suspended Parker following an investigation by the Liberian Anti-Corruption Commission (LAAC). The investigation alleges that Parker awarded contracts without the approval of the Public Procurement and Concession Commission on behalf of the NPA for wreck removal projects at the ports of Monrovia, Buchanan and Greenville. The grand jury’s indictment also alleges that Parker made fraudulent payments to co-defendant Deneah M. Flomo.