By D. Abraham Cooper Sr.
The newly appointed commander of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), Grand Gedeh County Detachment Milton K. Howard has vowed to maintain zero torrance in the fight against drug trafficking in the country.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with this paper on Monday, February 2, 2026, Howard noted that his administration will adopt a dual strategy combining aggressive field operations to dismantle drug hubs with a strong, community-based awareness campaign aimed at discouraging youth involvement in narcotics.
“Our mission is clear: to secure the borders and streets of Grand Gedeh from the scourge of illicit drugs that threaten the future of our young people,” Commander Howard stated during the interview.
According to him, his team will prioritize border surveillance, aimed at strengthening patrols along porous areas in order to track the inflow of illicit substances.
Howard, further revealed that the LDEA will will closely with the Liberia National Police to strengthen community policing, noting that it builds trust and confidence amongst local residents to report suspicious activities and drug-related crimes.
Commander Howard’s appointment comes at a critical time as the county faces growing concern over the prevalence of “Kush” and other harmful substances.
He called on citizens to view the LDEA as a partner in development and public safety rather than a force of intimidation.
He further pledged to work closely with the joint security apparatus and the local judiciary to ensure that drug traffickers face the full weight of the law, while also advocating for improved logistics and resources to empower LDEA officers on the front lines.
