Monrovia, Liberia | Nov. 20, 2025 | The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency – LDEA, Nimba detachment, has announced the arrest of two Liberian nationals who were allegedly transporting a significant quantity of the pharmaceutical drug Tramadol into the country using a concealed smuggling method.
The suspects Jeremiah Yarkpawolo, a 29-year-old mechanic, and Morris Kromah, age 23 and a commercial motorcyclist, both residents of Gbarnga, Bong County, were apprehended on the morning of November 19, 2025, at approximately 8:15 a.m.
According to authorities, LDEA officers stationed at the Tonwin Sub-Port in Ganta intercepted the pair as they attempted to cross into Liberia from neighboring Guinea.
A detailed search of their vehicle reportedly uncovered 47 packs, totaling 470 strips of Tramadol, which had been tightly concealed inside a used automobile tyre.
Investigators say the method reflects the increasingly sophisticated strategies drug traffickers are using to outmaneuver law enforcement agencies.
The seized Tramadol has an estimated street value of LRD 940,000, or roughly USD 5,222, highlighting both the commercial scale and the seriousness of the alleged trafficking attempt.
Both suspects are currently in LDEA custody while undergoing what the Agency describes as a “comprehensive and ongoing investigation.” Officials say that once the preliminary inquiry is completed, the individuals will be formally charged and turned over to the appropriate court, in accordance with Liberia’s amended drug law, which imposes stricter penalties for narcotics-related crimes.
The Agency used the occasion to renew its call for public vigilance, urging citizens across the country, especially those residing along border communities to assist national anti-drug efforts.
The LDEA encouraged the public to report suspicious behavior, unusual movements, or any information that may be tied to drug smuggling or abuse.
The Agency stressed that collective action and community cooperation remain essential in the fight against illicit drug trafficking, which continues to threaten national security, public health, and the well-being of young people across Liberia.
