By Moses P. Smith – Contributor
Monrovia — Former Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor was detained on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, by members of the Liberia Joint Security at Roberts International Airport.
The detention is connected to a $3.17 million drug bust, one of the biggest narcotics seizures in recent Liberian history. Authorities have not yet said what role they believe she played.
Information Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah confirmed the development on Prime FM Wednesday. He said the former Vice President has been declared a “person of interest” in the ongoing investigation. A “person of interest” means police want to question her about the case.
Minister Piah said the government is committed to enforcing the law “without exception.” He called on all Liberians to help with the investigation. The statement signals that no one, including past top officials, will be shielded.
Minutes after her encounter, the Former VP Wrote “To all pls be informed that I was about to go to Accra to attend a women’s forum and was informed that I am not allowed to leave the country.
“They have asked that I report to the Police Station. I am on my way there.” Madam Taylor further insisted that she won’t appear to at the police headquarters as requested without her legal representative.
Jewel H. Taylor – Former Vice President of the Republic of Liberia.
The drug bust has already sparked strong public reaction and renewed calls for tougher action against drug trafficking. Authorities say the investigation is still ongoing and more arrests or charges could follow as new details come out.
