By By The People Newspaper
Paynesville — Private Sports Bar & Restaurant says state security found no illegal drugs during a third inspection this year, as armed police continue to besiege the Paynesville property linked to owner George “Leroy” Harris.
In a public notice issued Thursday, management said a Joint Security Team searched the interior and exterior of the business at about 10:00 a.m. and found no illegal substances. The company noted this was the third such operation since May 2026, and maintained that “no illegal drugs have been found on the premises during any of the three inspections.” Management said the bar remains a law-abiding business and is fully cooperating with authorities.
The inspection came less than 24 hours after police surrounded every entrance to the entertainment center. The government named Harris on Tuesday in the ongoing US$317 million cocaine case. Prosecutors allege he faces charges of unlicensed importation, trafficking, distribution, economic sabotage, money laundering and criminal conspiracy. Authorities claim he used the bar’s brand and cash flow to mask narcotics movement in and out of Liberia. Information Minister Jerolinmek Piah said “no one is above the law,” framing the case as part of a tougher crackdown.
Despite the police presence, management questioned the closure of the business. The company said it had “not been served with a court order or any other written legal directive authorizing the closure” before the action was taken. It added that it is consulting legal counsel to determine its rights and seek clarification under Liberian law. Out of respect for due process, management declined to comment further on the merits of the case involving Mr. Harris.
The bar also urged calm and cautioned against misinformation. “We call on the public to remain calm, refrain from spreading rumors or misinformation, and allow the legal process to proceed without interference,” the statement said. Management expressed confidence in Liberia’s justice system and said it would respect the court’s final determination. As investigators press forward, the case will test whether authorities can prove the alleged link between big business, nightlife, and the drug trade.
