The Zorzor Magisterial Court in Lofa County has confronted officers of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) over their alleged failure to appear and account for key evidence seized during a recent drug raid.
The public hearing, held on November 25, 2025, and presided over by Associate Magistrate F. Joseph S. Mamolu, focused on a court-approved search-and-seizure operation conducted on November 2, 2025.
The raid led to the arrest of three suspects and the confiscation of narcotics, cash, and other items, including approximately two and a half plates of compressed marijuana, nine strips of Tramadol, 117 wraps of illicit drugs, a short pump single-barrel gun, LRD 56,600, and a TVS motorbike.
A receipt issued by Court Bailiff David T. K. Yanton confirmed that all seized items were formally submitted to the court, underscoring the legal importance of proper documentation.
LDEA Commander Richard F. Wuokolo and Investigator Famous K. Fofana failed to attend the November 25 hearing, prompting the court to issue writs of contempt.
Their absence delayed proceedings and raised concerns about adherence to judicial authority in drug enforcement cases.
Both officers later appeared on November 26, admitted their failure to show up, and apologized to the court.
They waived their right to legal representation and pledged that such conduct would not occur again.
Prosecution Accepts Guilty Plea
City Solicitor Atty. James V. Kelleh, representing the Ministry of Justice, did not oppose the officers’ admission of guilt, acknowledging the need for accountability within law enforcement.
Court Demands Return of Missing Motorbike
The Magistrate Mamolu raised concerns over the absence of one of the motorbikes expected to be presented as evidence.
He ordered the LDEA to return the missing motorbike by 12 p.m. on December 3, 2025, warning that failure to do so would result in the immediate arrest and detention of the responsible officers until the item is produced.
Magistrate Mamolu issued a strong caution, stressing that all search-and-seizure warrants bear the full authority of the court and must be respected.
“The LDEA is hereby warned that such actions should not be repeated,” he stated.
The incident underscores persistent challenges in coordination between law enforcement agencies and the judiciary, particularly in rural areas. As Liberia ramps up its campaign against illegal drugs, legal compliance and institutional transparency remain essential to rebuilding public confidence.
More updates will follow as the court’s December 3 deadline approaches from Fasu Sella source
