MONROVIA – The Liberia Drugs Enforcement Agency (LDEA) has announced the seizure of 1,929 kilograms of compressed marijuana, with an estimated street value of over L$27.8 million, in a significant operation conducted on September 18, 2025. The bust, which took place in Brewerville City, Montserrado County, also resulted in the arrest of two foreign nationals.
In a special statement delivered on September 22, 2025, the LDEA’s head announced the successful operation, hailing it as a major victory in the fight against drug trafficking. The drugs have an estimated value of L$27,850,760, which is approximately US$146,604.
The two suspects arrested during the operation are Umar Mohammed, 38, a Nigerian national, and Abdullah Kamara, 18, a Sierra Leonean national. The LDEA identified Mohammed as a known drug trafficker in the West African subregion. Both men are in LDEA custody and will be charged and prosecuted in accordance with Liberian law.
The LDEA’s leadership also outlined ongoing institutional reforms aimed at professionalizing the agency and holding its officers accountable. The agency has recalled all personnel from Roberts International Airport due to concerns of misconduct, with two officers currently under investigation for allegedly underreporting the quantity of narcotics seized at the airport. The LDEA’s head stated that the agency will “not tolerate any acts of corruption, negligence, or actions that undermine the integrity of this agency.”
As part of the reforms, the LDEA has implemented a mandatory drug-testing policy for all its officers. Tests have been completed for headquarters and Bomi County personnel. The results from Bomi County revealed that six officers tested positive for illicit drug abuse. These officers—five volunteers and one employee—have been disciplined. The five volunteers were discharged, while the employee was suspended indefinitely and turned over to the LDEA’s Professional Standards Division for further investigation.
The LDEA expressed gratitude to community members, religious leaders, and various civil society organizations for their cooperation. The agency emphasized that its commitment to making Liberia a safe haven for its citizens is its highest priority. The LDEA’s head concluded by reaffirming the agency’s dedication to rooting out drug networks and ensuring that Liberia works for everyone.
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