The Officer-in-Charge of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), Fitzgerald Blago, has announced the arrest of 178 drug dealers and traffickers, the seizure of six vehicles, and the discovery of two illegal drug dens during recent anti-drug operations.
Speaking on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing in Monrovia, Blago disclosed that the arrests and seizures occurred between September and October.
He emphasized that the LDEA remains committed to curbing the sale and consumption of harmful substances across the country.
According to Blago, the agency has intensified its community engagement efforts. In partnership with civil society groups, including the Federation of Liberian Youth (FLY), the LDEA has launched a school-based awareness initiative to educate young people about the dangers of drug abuse.
As part of this initiative, 14 anti-drug clubs have been established in 14 high schools across Montserrado County.
Meanwhile, the LDEA has detained Mr. Clifford Payne, a staffer of the Group of 77, for allegedly attempting to obstruct the transfer of a detained drug suspect in New Kru Town, District #17.
The incident reportedly began on November 22, when Payne visited the LDEA office to intervene on behalf of Jewel Saybaine, who had been arrested with 112 bundles of Kush valued at US$216,000.
Blago said Payne pleaded for the suspect’s release, but officers refused, stressing that they could not act outside the law.
On November 24, as LDEA officers were transporting Saybaine to court, Payne allegedly tried to block the process, prompting his arrest and subsequent handover to the Liberia National Police.
Authorities say there is currently no evidence linking Payne to drug trafficking, but he will be charged with obstructing law enforcement.
He is expected to undergo further investigation and possible court proceedings on Wednesday, November 26.
Blago reaffirmed the LDEA’s resolve, stating that the agency “will not relent in the fight against drugs” as it seeks to ensure safer communities across Liberia.
