Cestos City, Rivercess County – The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), Rivercess Chapter, has destroyed a cache of illicit drugs valued at over 4.97 million Liberian Dollars.
The burning exercise, which took place on Thursday, June 26, 2025, in the Fanti Community of Cestos City, comes as part of the agency’s ongoing operations to rid the county of illegal substances. The disposal was timed to coincide with World Drug Day, reinforcing the global call for action against drug trafficking and abuse.
According to LDEA Rivercess Commander George Kermukai, the seized drugs were tested and verified by the Ministry of Justice before the public destruction. He described the burning as a demonstration of the county’s resolve to stand firm against the drug menace.
“We want to send a clear message to drug dealers and abusers that Rivercess is not a safe haven,” Kermukai stated in an interview with Verity News. “This is a commitment not just from LDEA, but from all stakeholders.”
Among the substances destroyed were 234.1 kilograms of Kush with an estimated street value of US$9,500 (L$1.9 million), 89 kilograms of heroin, 36.8 kilograms of cocaine, 24 kilograms of marijuana, 59 kilograms of precursor chemicals, and 50 strips of Tramadol.
The event was attended by representatives of the Liberia National Police, the National Security Agency (NSA), the Liberia Immigration Service, the judiciary, civil society organizations, students, and community members.
Serving as guest speaker, Rivercess County Attorney Martin M. Tumoe emphasized the judiciary’s unwavering stance on prosecuting drug-related offenses. “The fight against drugs must be collective. We in the justice system are committed, but we need the support of the public,” he said. “Let us work together to protect our youth and secure their future.”
Tumoe lauded the efforts of the LDEA and urged citizens to stand in solidarity with the agency to ensure Rivercess becomes a drug-free county.
Adding his voice, Civil Society Council Chairperson Samuel Outland called for increased community involvement in drug education. “This is not just the LDEA’s fight. Communities, schools, and families must join in educating children about the dangers of drug abuse,” he said.
Outland also urged LDEA officers to maintain professionalism and avoid distractions that could hinder their effectiveness. “Discipline must remain the cornerstone of your service,” he cautioned.
The destruction of the drugs marked a significant milestone in the county’s anti-narcotics campaign, signaling a unified front among law enforcement, the judiciary, and local communities.
