Koung Denies Drug Link Claims

Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung has strongly denied allegations suggesting he has ties to individuals reportedly linked to the ongoing investigation into the more than US$19 million cocaine seizure, insisting that a photograph with an individual does not establish any personal relationship or involvement.

The Vice President's response follows comments made by FrontPage Africa publisher Rodney Sieh during an appearance on Spoon TV, where he claimed that Koung had been seen with some individuals allegedly connected to the high-profile drug trafficking case.

Sieh argued that, given the seriousness of the investigation, the Vice President should publicly explain the nature of his relationship with those individuals.

Responding in a statement, Koung rejected the allegations and described them as unfounded.

"I reject Rodney Sieh's allegation on Spoon TV last night that I have an association with one Anthony seen in a group photo with me, who he alleged to have a link to drug-related activities," the Vice President said.

Koung explained that, in his capacity as Vice President, he regularly takes photographs with members of the public and attendees at official and private events.

He said such photographs should not be interpreted as evidence of a personal relationship or knowledge of an individual's private activities.

"As Vice President, I do take photos with many individuals at public and private events. I do not know Anthony, and the photo taken does not suggest my knowledge of any personal dealings he may be involved with," Koung stated.

The Vice President emphasized that he has no personal association with the individual identified by Sieh.

He also reiterated his longstanding position that anyone found to be involved in drug-related crimes should face justice, regardless of their relationship to him.

Koung referenced his public remarks made following the November 24, 2025 arrest of Clifford Payne, an official of the Group of 77, who was detained in connection with allegations arising from a suspected drug case.

He said his position has remained unchanged since that time.

"As I stated when Clifford Payne, an official of the Group of 77, was arrested on November 24, 2025, in connection with allegations arising from a suspected drug case, I still maintain that if my wife, children, relatives, friends, political associates, and employees are connected to any drug-related activities, they should face the full weight of the law," Koung declared.

The Vice President said his commitment to the rule of law applies equally to everyone, irrespective of family ties, political affiliation, or personal relationships.

His statement comes as public scrutiny continues over the ongoing investigation into the multi-million-dollar cocaine seizure at Roberts International Airport, one of the country's largest reported drug interceptions.

Authorities have already charged several individuals in connection with the case, while investigations remain ongoing.

Koung's latest response seeks to distance himself from any alleged links to suspects or persons of interest, maintaining that appearing in a photograph with someone should not be construed as evidence of association or criminal knowledge.