Monrovia, Liberia – August 7, 2025 – The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) has confirmed the arrest of four individuals in connection with what authorities say is the first attempt to smuggle Methcathinone a potent synthetic drug into Liberia.
The operation took place on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at approximately 6:30 PM at the Bo Waterside border entry point in Grand Cape Mount County. Officers intercepted 844 grams of Methcathinone, a powerful stimulant similar to cathinone, the active ingredient in the khat plant. The drug is known for its euphoric and highly addictive effects, and its value is estimated at USD $8,440 or LD $1,688,000.
LDEA agents uncovered the illicit substance hidden in the rear door of a blue Nissan Primera, license plate A120421, during a routine inspection at the port of entry.
The suspects arrested in connection with the bust include:
Eariel Xavises Aweti, 36, Sierra Leonean
Samuel R. Grey, 28, Sierra Leonean
Alonso Yeah, 35, a Liberian artist residing in Sierra Leone (known on Facebook as Alonzo Abasi)
Matthew Sherman, 25, Liberian, resident of VOA Community
Notably, suspect Alonso Yeah is a well-known artist whose music publicly promotes anti-drug messaging. His arrest has drawn particular attention, given his advocacy role in drug awareness campaigns.
“This interception is a major breakthrough and a strong warning to traffickers attempting to introduce new and dangerous substances into Liberia,” the LDEA stated in a press release. “We remain resolute in our mission to protect Liberians from the scourge of drugs.”
The agency confirmed that all four suspects have been transferred for investigation and are expected to be prosecuted in accordance with Liberian law.
The seizure comes amid a nationwide “Say No to Drugs” campaign, a movement that has recently gained momentum with peaceful protests and petitions calling for stronger enforcement and drug policy reform.
Methcathinone, while relatively unknown in Liberia, is classified internationally as a controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse. Its appearance at one of Liberia’s major border points signals what authorities fear could be the beginning of a new trend in narcotic smuggling.
The LDEA has pledged to intensify surveillance and border inspections as part of its broader fight against drug trafficking and abuse.
