In a move to boost community health and awareness, the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) Bong County Detachment is engaging in a massive cleanup effort in Gbarnga, ahead of International Day against Drugs. This annual event, celebrated on June 26, was established by the United Nations General Assembly back in 1987. The main goal is to push for better teamwork worldwide to tackle drug-related problems and to promote health-centered solutions instead of just punishing people.
This year, the theme for World Drug Day is “Breaking the Chains, Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery for All.” It emphasizes how important it is for communities to come together and support each other in fighting drug abuse and illegal drug trade.
Speaking to journalists during the exercise in Gbarnga, the Liberia Drug Enforcement Bong County Detachment Deputy Commander Lewis Geelar said the initiative fits with the theme, aiming to create a healthier community while also encouraging locals to get involved in tackling drug-related issues.
Lewis disclosed that officers of the Bong County Detachment roles extend beyond sanitation, citing that they are also sending a strong message about taking care of the environment. His words showed that the event is about both getting the community involved and preventing drug abuse.
During the exercise, the head of Sanitation at the Gbarnga City Corporation, Mr. Sekou Jabateh, reacted positively, showing appreciation for the LDEA’s involvement in promoting sanitation in the city of Gbarnga. He stated that it is great to see law enforcement stepping up and engaging in city cleanliness, expressing hope that it leads to more teamwork in the future. The clean-up also served to educate participants about the dangers of drug abuse and why having a clean space matters in keeping illicit activities at bay.
As the world gets ready to observe World Drug Day, the efforts by the LDEA in Bong County serve as a reminder that “we” need to tackle drug-related issues with kindness and a community focus. The LDEA is calling on everyone to join the cause, stressing that a cleaner environment leads to healthier communities and can help cut down on drug abuse. By: Jacob Kermue, Bong County Reporter 0775187091/0888809944
