MONROVIA, LIBERIA-Liberia’s Asset Recovery and Property Retrieval Taskforce (AREPT) has reacted to a writ of prohibition issued by the Justice in Chambers of the Supreme Court of Liberia, Jamesetta Wolokollie.

AREPT says while it was fully prepared to commence the prosecution of the five hundred thousand Saudi Rice Case during the November Term of Court, the Justice in Chambers issued the writ filed by Co-Defendant Thelma Duncan Sawyer and her legal counsel.

The issuance of the writ has unexpectedly halted the proceedings.

Before the High Court’s intervention, AREPT had prayed for an assignment, organized all evidentiary materials, and secured witnesses ready to testify on behalf of the Republic of Liberia.

The case was scheduled to begin on Friday, November 14, 2025, marking a significant step in holding accountable those accused of misappropriating rice donated by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the Liberian disaster victims.

The writ, prayed for by Co-Defendant Sawyer, remains in effect until a conference scheduled for December 2, 2025, can be convened.

Meanwhile, the AREPT says the temporary stay will not deter its mandate to trace, identify, and recover stolen and suspicious government assets.

In a release, AREPT reiterated its resolve to ensure that justice is served in this and all other cases under its jurisdiction.

AREPT also reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, assuring the Liberian people that those involved in the five hundred thousand Saudi Rice Case and other cases will be prosecuted, despite delays.

The Taskforce noted that it is continuing active investigations of former and current officials of the government accused of theft of public prosperity and the acquisition of unexplained assets.