..Seizes Over 422 Kilograms of Narcotics In First Quarter of 2026
By Amos Harris
The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) has reported significant progress in its nationwide fight against illicit drugs and substance abuse, announcing the arrest of 233 suspects and the seizure of more than 422 kilograms of narcotics during the first quarter of 2026. Presenting the agency’s First Quarter Report, Officer-In-Charge DCP Fitzgerald T.M. Biago said the achievements reflect ongoing efforts by the government to address drug abuse, which has been declared a national security and public health emergency by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai.
According to the report, the LDEA arrested 233 individuals linked to drug trafficking and other narcotics-related offenses across Liberia between January and March 2026. Of the total number arrested, 193 were men, accounting for 83 percent, while 40 were women, representing 17 percent. The agency disclosed that the suspects included 195 Liberians, 17 Nigerians, 12 Sierra Leoneans, and nine Guineans. Authorities said all individuals arrested were investigated and forwarded to court for prosecution in accordance with Liberian law.
The report further revealed that law enforcement officers confiscated a total of 422.08 kilograms of assorted illegal substances during the reporting period. The seizures included 115.66 kilograms of Kush, 248.56 kilograms of marijuana, 0.56 kilograms of cocaine, and 57.30 kilograms of tramadol. LDEA officials estimated the street value of the confiscated narcotics at more than US$433,950 and over LD$103 million on the local market, highlighting the scale of the illegal drug trade operating within the country.
One of the agency’s most notable achievements during the quarter was a major operation at the Bo-Waterside border crossing in Grand Cape Mount County. The operation resulted in the confiscation of approximately US$1.337 million believed to be connected to transnational drug trafficking activities. Authorities described the seizure as a major breakthrough in efforts to disrupt organized criminal networks operating across Liberia’s borders and strengthen regional security cooperation.
The agency also reported ongoing internal investigations involving officers accused of misconduct and evidence tampering. LDEA leadership emphasized that the investigations demonstrate its commitment to transparency, accountability, and a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption within the institution.
In addition to enforcement activities, the agency outlined several institutional reforms aimed at improving operational efficiency and professionalism. According to the report, 110 Action Agents were vetted and enrolled at the Liberia National Police Academy for formal recruit training, while 30 senior personnel began leadership and management development programs. As part of broader reform measures, the LDEA also introduced mandatory random drug testing for its personnel, a move officials say is intended to strengthen integrity and public confidence in the institution.
The agency further announced the establishment of a vehicle tracking and risk management system, improvements in evidence management procedures, and the development of Standard Operating Procedures to guide future operations. Plans are also underway for the relocation and renovation of a modern headquarters facility to enhance the agency’s administrative and operational capabilities.
Beyond law enforcement, the LDEA intensified public awareness and prevention campaigns during the quarter. Through outreach programs conducted in schools, communities, churches, mosques, youth organizations, and civil society groups, the agency reached more than 2,500 citizens with anti-drug education messages. Officials stressed that prevention remains a critical component of the national strategy to combat drug abuse, particularly among young people who are considered most vulnerable to substance addiction.
The report highlighted what the agency described as a significant reduction in drug proliferation when compared to the previous quarter. Data presented showed that drug seizures declined from 5,186.17 kilograms in the final quarter of 2025 to 422.08 kilograms in the first quarter of 2026. LDEA leadership interpreted the 91.86 percent reduction as evidence of increased pressure on traffickers and improved enforcement measures that have disrupted drug distribution networks.
Despite the reported gains, the agency acknowledged several challenges, including limited logistical support, inadequate surveillance technology, and increasingly sophisticated trafficking methods employed by criminal organizations. The LDEA is therefore calling on the Government of Liberia, international partners, civil society organizations, and citizens to continue supporting anti-drug efforts, emphasizing that the fight against narcotics remains a shared national responsibility.
DCP Biago expressed appreciation to government institutions, security agencies, international partners, community leaders, and LDEA personnel for their contributions, pledging that the agency will continue working toward a safer and drug-free Liberia.
Comments are closed.