By Bill W. Cooper
Since his shocking death, the Liberia National Police (LNP) and the management of Boulevard Palace Hotel have provided conflicting statements regarding the death of the hotel’s Manager, Anwar Futloo.
Mr. Anwar Futloo, a South African national passed away on December 30, 2024, in Monrovia under unclear circumstances.
Futloo was found unresponsive on the evening of Monday, December 30, 2024, at a residence on 9th Street, Sinkor, following what police believe was the ingestion of caustic soda, a highly corrosive chemical.
Despite emergency medical efforts, Futloo succumbed to death at the John F. Kennedy Medical Center, but sources close to the deceased alleged that Futloo had been under significant pressure from his employer, Sam Halabi in recent.
It was also reported that Halabi allegedly instructed Futloo to meet with an associate at the residence shortly before his death, as the meeting has now become the focal point of a police investigation, with a security guard at the location now detained for questioning.
But the Police, through its Inspector General, Gregory Coleman has not ruled out the possibility of the deceased Futloo committing suicide, even though they have launched an active investigation into the matter.
During a press conference Tuesday, December 31, 2024, IG Coleman also revealed that the deceased went to a Humanitarian Home on 9th Street, where he allegedly went to the bathroom room and consumed a cleaning substance.
According to him, the screams from the bathroom made the security to rush in, where he allegedly met Mr. Futoo lying, revealing that prior to the victim going to the Humanitarian Home, he allegedly went to a supermarket to buy a substance used for cleaning.
Coleman further disclosed that the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has also authorized an autopsy on the remains of the late Futloo intended to establish the actual cause of his death which has since brought panic amongst the citizenry.
As investigations continue, the LNP boss further urged the public to refrain from speculation and spreading of misinformation, emphasizing that an official statement will be made once the cause of death is confirmed.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Justice said it has launched an immediate investigation into the mysterious death.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Justice, authorities confirmed that an autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of Mr. Futloo’s death emphasizing the government’s commitment to a transparent and thorough investigation, vowing to prosecute anyone found responsible for his untimely demise.
Amid rising public concern and speculation surrounding the incident, the Ministry of Justice has called on citizens and foreign residents to remain calm, exercise restraint, and avoid spreading unfounded rumors.
The government reassured the public that the safety and security of all residents in Liberia remain a top priority, even in the wake of such a tragic event and expressed its deepest condolences to the bereaved family, the Government of South Africa, and the wider business community.
The Ministry recognized Mr. Futloo’s contributions to Liberia’s hospitality industry and acknowledged the significant loss his passing represents and promised to keep the public informed as the investigation progresses and more details become available.
Authorities have pledged full transparency throughout the investigative process, ensuring accountability and justice are served.
The tragic death of Mr. Anwar Futloo has cast a shadow over Liberia’s business and expatriate community, however, with the government’s swift response and commitment to uncovering the truth, stakeholders remain hopeful for a conclusive resolution.
Whatever the case, the management of Boulevard Palace Hotel also confirmed the death of Futloo, revealing that his lifeless body was discovered in his vehicle on Monday, contrary to the government and media reports.
While the cause of death remains unverified, the hotel management, however, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Futloo, describing him as more than just a leader to the hotel and its staff.
In a brief statement issued minutes following his death, the management mourned, “Anwar was not just a leader; he was the heart of Boulevard Palace, inspiring every member of our team with his unwavering dedication, compassion, and vision.”
They also praised his transformative leadership, noting that under his guidance, Boulevard Palace had become a renowned symbol of excellence, and lamented, “Anwar’s leadership transformed our hotel into a place where both guests and employees felt at home.”
The Hotel, has thanked the country for its outpouring of support and condolences, acknowledging the impact of Futloo’s life both inside and outside the organization and everyone he had encountered with his stay on earth.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the community for the overwhelming calls of support, care, and concern during this difficult time. Your kindness reminds us of the many lives Anwar touched both within and beyond our organization,” the statement added.
The management also asked for continued prayers for Futloo’s family, including his wife and young son, and added, “The loss they bear is immeasurable, and we all need your collective love and strength to navigate this painful journey, and we pledged to honor Futloo’s legacy by maintaining the high standards he set during his tenure.”
