CESTOS CITY, River Cess County – A Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) officer is among two men currently under investigation after being arrested in separate anti-drug operations conducted by the agency in River Cess County.
The arrests, carried out on Monday, June 1, 2026, highlight growing concerns about the transportation of illegal drugs into the county and the continued threat substance abuse poses to local communities, particularly young people.
According to the LDEA, officers stationed at the Nimba Junction Checkpoint arrested 28-year-old Jerry Doelekeh, an LDEA officer and resident of Cestos City, while he was allegedly traveling from Buchanan to other parts of River Cess County.
Authorities reported that a search conducted by officers led to the discovery of five plates of compressed marijuana allegedly concealed in his possession. The substance was confiscated, and Doelekeh was taken into custody for further investigation.
In a separate operation on the same day, officers at the Timbo Bridge Checkpoint arrested 30-year-old Christian Tuolee, a resident of Gay-Tay-Lay Gold Camp in Dorbor, Central River Cess District, while he was traveling from Buchanan to the mining camp.
A routine search reportedly uncovered ten strips of Tramadol allegedly in his possession. Tramadol, a prescription pain medication, has become one of the most commonly abused substances among young people across Liberia and the region.
Both suspects are currently undergoing investigation at the LDEA headquarters in Cestos City.
Authorities said the alleged actions of the two men violate provisions of Liberia’s Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, which criminalizes the unauthorized possession, transportation, distribution, and trafficking of controlled substances and narcotic drugs.
The LDEA has not yet disclosed the street value of the drugs seized during the operations, noting that additional details may emerge as investigations continue.
The latest arrests come amid increasing efforts by law enforcement agencies to curb the spread of narcotics in River Cess County, where concerns over substance abuse among youth continue to attract public attention.
Speaking following the arrests, River Cess County LDEA Commander Samelia Dahngbe emphasized that defeating drug abuse and trafficking requires a collective effort from all sectors of society.
Commander Dahngbe stressed that the responsibility of combating illegal drugs should not rest solely on the shoulders of the LDEA but must involve communities, parents, traditional leaders, youth groups, religious institutions, and other stakeholders.
“The fight against drugs is everyone’s responsibility,” she said, noting that community cooperation remains one of the most effective tools in identifying and disrupting illegal drug activities.
She further urged residents to promptly report suspicious drug-related activities to law enforcement authorities, emphasizing that early intervention can help prevent the spread of narcotics and protect vulnerable young people from falling victim to substance abuse.
According to the county LDEA commander, sustained public awareness, community vigilance, and stronger partnerships between citizens and law enforcement agencies are critical to reducing the availability of illicit drugs and safeguarding the future of River Cess County’s youth.
As investigations continue, the arrests serve as another reminder of the ongoing challenge posed by illegal drugs in the county and the determination of law enforcement authorities to crack down on those involved in the unlawful trade.
