Authorities in Monrovia are deepening their investigation into the puzzling death of Anwar Futloo, the South African General Manager of the Boulevard Palace Hotel—one of Liberia’s premier destinations frequented by the nation’s political elite and business moguls.
The circumstances surrounding Futloo’s demise on New Year’s Eve remain shrouded in mystery, prompting speculation ranging from tragic suicide to politically motivated foul play.
Futloo was found unresponsive on the evening of December 31 at a residence on 9th Street in Sinkor after reportedly ingesting a highly corrosive chemical. Despite immediate medical attention from the John F. Kennedy Medical Center, he succumbed to his injuries.
Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman disclosed preliminary findings suggesting that Futloo’s death might be a suicide. According to Coleman, Futloo allegedly visited a local humanitarian home on New Year’s Eve, where he went into a bathroom and consumed the toxic substance after purchasing it from a nearby store.
“Security personnel were alerted by screams from the bathroom and found him lying on the floor,” Coleman stated. “A coroner’s inquest will provide further clarity as we continue our investigation.” Authorities have also identified several persons of interest who are currently being interviewed.
Futloo’s unexpected death has sparked a whirlwind of theories, with some suggesting a possible revenge killing or suicide stemming from financial distress.
Speculation intensified when a particular account surfaced, claiming that an incriminating video—a recording of alleged bribery conversations involving political figures—was reportedly captured in Room 1026 at the Boulevard Palace Hotel, which Futloo might have accessed during his tenure.
In statement posted on Facebook, the management of Boulevard Palace Hotel expressed profound sorrow over Futloo’s passing, acknowledging him as the heart and soul of the establishment.
“Anwar was not just a leader; he was a beacon of dedication, compassion, and vision,” the statement read. “His leadership transformed our hotel into a symbol of excellence.”
Civil society organizations and opposition leaders are demanding transparency in the investigation. A spokesperson for the Liberia Anti-Corruption Network asserted, “This is not just about one man’s tragic death; it’s about the integrity of our nation. If these allegations are true, they expose a rot at the highest levels of government.”
Adding a layer of complexity to the case, former Liberian President George Weah held a watchnight sermon on New Year’s Day, questioning the rationale behind Futloo seeking entertainment in an apartment to smoke shisha when he could have easily enjoyed luxurious amenities as the manager of one of Liberia’s top hotels.
“It raises eyebrows that someone in his position would choose such a path,” Weah remarked during his sermon themed ‘God Sees Everything.’