By Ben T.C. Brooks
The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) has intensified its fight against illegal drug trafficking in River Gee County, making three major arrests in just seven days and seizing narcotics valued at more than LRD 1.2 million.
The recent operations highlight the LDEA’s renewed commitment to dismantle drug distribution networks and safeguard communities, particularly the county’s youth, from the harmful social and health impacts of illicit drug abuse.
On Saturday, January 17, officers at the Teinpo Detail checkpoint apprehended 25-year-old commercial motorcyclist Howard Gbangly. He was intercepted while traveling from Kanweaken to Nyonken.
During a search, LDEA officers discovered half a plate of marijuana and five strips of Tramadol pills, allegedly intended for illegal sale. The seized substances are valued at approximately LRD 48,750.
Gbangly is currently under investigation as authorities trace the drugs’ source and intended recipients. He is expected to face prosecution at the Teinpo Nyonken Magisterial Court.
Earlier, on Thursday, January 15, a major Tramadol shipment was intercepted in what LDEA officials described as a significant breakthrough. The seizure followed a tip-off from a commercial driver who realized that his cargo, transported from Kanweaken to Grand Gedeh County, contained illegal Tramadol pills.
LDEA officers intercepted the shipment at Combat Gate Junction, arresting 39-year-old businesswoman God There Johnson in connection with the consignment. Authorities estimate the street value of the Tramadol at LRD 1,140,000, marking one of the largest seizures in the county this year.
Earlier in the week, 21-year-old student Jackson K. Weah was arrested at the Webbo Checkpoint while traveling from Pleebo to Kanweaken. Officers discovered a compressed plate of high-grade marijuana in his vehicle, valued at approximately LRD 18,000.
Special Agent Bill M. Cooper Jr., LDEA River Gee County Commander, reaffirmed the agency’s zero-tolerance stance on drug trafficking, particularly targeting young people and vulnerable populations.
Authorities urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to help curb drug distribution in the county.
“These arrests send a strong message: River Gee County will not be a safe haven for drug traffickers,” an LDEA official emphasized.
All suspects remain under active investigation and willB be forwarded to court in accordance with Liberian law.
