U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Joseph Zadrozny handed over 15 motorcycles and internet equipment to the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) at a ceremony held at LDEA Headquarters on May 21. The equipment was procured with U.S. Department of State Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) program funds through the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
The handover underscores the United States’ continued commitment to strengthening Liberia’s ability to combat drug trafficking and transnational organized crime, challenges that directly affect U.S. and regional security interests.
The motorcycles and communications equipment will enhance the LDEA’s operational capabilities and reach, enabling officers to respond more effectively to counter narcotics operations across Liberia.
“The fight against drug trafficking and transnational organized crime is not just a Liberian priority; it is a shared American priority,” the Chargé d’Affaires told participants. “Drug trafficking networks that exploit West Africa as a transit corridor threaten both our nations.
Your work here safeguards Liberian communities from the corrosive effects of the drug trade and makes you a stronger partner with the United States.”
Since 2005, INL has programmed more than $150 million to support civilian security and justice programs in Liberia. Beginning in 2013, INL facilitated the reform of the LDEA, including training, mentoring, and the provision of equipment.
“While INL’s large-scale law enforcement programs concluded in December 2023, our commitment to Liberia’s security sector has not wavered,” Zadrozny noted. “We continue to support the LDEA and other agencies through targeted assistance, including counter narcotics programs, mentoring, and access to regional and international training opportunities.”
The Chargé also recognized Deputy Commissioner of Police Fitzgerald T.M. Biago, LDEA Officer-in- Charge, for his long-standing partnership with INL since 2011 and his dedication to professionalism and operational readiness throughout his career in Liberian law enforcement.
The ceremony was attended by Minister of Justice Counselor Oswald Tweh, Deputy Commissioner of Police and Officer-in-Charge Fitzgerald T.M. Biago, Deputy Officer-In-Charge for Administration and Investigation Ernest T. Tarpeh, Deputy Officer-In-Charge for Operations: ACP Patrick B. Kormaz, and LDEA officers from various units.
The handover reflects the enduring friendship between the United States and Liberia, built on shared values, mutual respect, and mutual security interests.
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