Paynesville City, April 16, 2025 – The Asset Recovery and Property Retrieval Taskforce (AREPT) has confirmed the authenticity of a leaked letter. The letter was addressed to Madam Nora Finda Bundoo, the former Chief of Protocol to ex-President George Manneh Weah. This comes amid an intensifying probe into public asset misappropriation.
The letter, issued under the authority of Executive Order No. 145, was intended to summon Madam Bundoo as part of an ongoing investigation. According to the taskforce, the premature and unauthorized leak of the stamped and officially dispatched document appears calculated. They believe it aims to manipulate public opinion by painting the investigation as a case of targeted persecution.
“We have strong reason to believe that this document was leaked by the recipient or someone from her inner circle,” AREPT said. They noted the presence of distinct security features in the original letter that point to internal leakage.
Chairman of AREPT, Cllr. Edwin Kla Martin, previously disclosed that the taskforce is actively investigating 26 cases, including 17 major ones already approaching conclusion. These investigations span various sectors and involve both current and former officials suspected of misusing public funds and resources.
However, the taskforce emphasized that an invitation to appear before investigators should not be seen as an implication of guilt. “Due process remains central to our operations. If individuals are exonerated during the investigation, AREPT has no authority to pursue further action,” the statement clarified.
AREPT revealed that over 15 individuals have already cooperated with investigators without any information leaks. This is a testament to the integrity and confidentiality of the process. The public and media institutions were urged to treat such sensitive matters responsibly and avoid jeopardizing ongoing investigations. “Transparency is a cornerstone of our operations, but due process and accountability must be preserved,” the release stressed.
Reaffirming its commitment to the Liberian people, AREPT underscored the urgent need to recover stolen assets. They expressed the importance of restoring public trust in governance. This is particularly crucial in a nation plagued by corruption despite its wealth in natural resources.
