By By: Staff Writer
The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) is reportedly considering the reinstatement of Lawrence G. Bohlen, Assistant Director for Prison Operations at the Bureau of Corrections and Rehabilitation (BCR), raising fresh concerns over the credibility of an ongoing investigation into the disappearance of 25 bags of rice donated for inmates during the 2025 Christmas season.
Mr. Bohlen was suspended on December 29, 2025, after a leaked audio recording allegedly captured him arranging the removal of part of the rice consignment donated by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai. A preliminary internal review later confirmed that only 75 out of the 100 bags recorded as delivered could be physically accounted for.
Despite these findings, a reliable source within the Ministry has informed this outlet that authorities are now moving toward reinstating Mr. Bohlen—an action critics say casts doubt on whether the investigation remains active or effective. The reported move appears to echo claims made in the leaked audio, in which Mr. Bohlen allegedly stated that his actions were carried out in consultation with his superiors.
“If an official under active investigation can be quietly reinstated, then one must ask whether the investigation has collapsed or simply lost its purpose,” a whistleblower within the Ministry cautioned.
Speculation surrounding Mr. Bohlen’s return has reportedly circulated within the BCR for weeks.
Some insiders allege that his perceived closeness to senior Justice Ministry officials, including Assistant Minister Atty. Gabriel F. Ndupellar and Justice Minister Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh, may be influencing the outcome. The Ministry has yet to issue any formal response addressing these claims.
Meanwhile, the Special Investigative Panel constituted by the Ministry—chaired by Mr. Standley Cooper, Chairman of the Independent Parole Board—has not released its findings, despite public assurances that the probe would be concluded within two weeks. More than a month later, the continued silence is intensifying public doubt.
The unfolding situation has left many observers questioning whether the inquiry uncovered findings too sensitive to disclose, or whether institutional interests are now outweighing the pursuit of accountability. Until the panel’s report is made public, the controversy surrounding the missing Christmas rice—and the credibility of the investigation itself—remains unresolved.
