The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) says it has confiscated over US$300,000 worth of narcotic substances and arrested 170 suspects in connection with drug-related crimes in just two months.
As the Agency continues to intensify its fight against illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse in line with the 2014 LDEA Act and President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s declaration of drugs and substance abuse as a national security threat and public health emergency, it has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening reforms, enhancing operational capacity, and aligning its work with international best practices.
According to a press release dated March 25, 2026, in January and February 2026, the LDEA conducted several nationwide operations targeting drug traffickers and dismantling drug networks. These operations resulted in the arrest of 170 suspects and the seizure of 331.84 kilograms of assorted narcotics, with an estimated street value of US$391,474.76.
Additionally, US$150,000 believed to be linked to drug trafficking was confiscated during a major operation at the Bo Waterside Border in Grand Cape Mount. All suspects have been investigated, formally charged, and forwarded to court.
The release stated that the Agency also strengthened capacity-building and prevention efforts and has commenced Basic Police Recruit Training for 220 volunteers (Class 3), with the first 110 recruits currently undergoing training at the Liberia National Police Academy.
“Prevention and community outreach initiatives reached over 1,800 students in 11 schools, while additional anti-drug awareness programs were conducted during national events and in schools along the Du-Port Road corridor. The Agency also collaborated with youth groups, civil society organizations, and academic institutions to strengthen national drug prevention efforts,” the release said.
Despite these gains, the Agency noted that it continues to face challenges, including delays in adjudicating drug cases, weak border security infrastructure, limited logistics and technology, inadequate specialized training, and emerging digital methods used in drug trafficking.
The LDEA expressed appreciation to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, the Ministry of Justice, Joint Security, international partners including the U.S. Embassy, INL, and UNODC, and the people of Liberia for their continued support.
