As momentum builds for the upcoming August 7 anti-drug march to the Capitol, a senior official of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) is urging organizers and the public to reconsider their approach—emphasizing the need for long-term, community-driven efforts over public protests.
In an open letter issued on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, S/AGT. Jimmy N.U. Brimah, Deputy Commander of the Du-Port Road Satellite (D-3 Base), appealed to citizens and civil society leaders to shift their focus from street demonstrations to grassroots collaboration.
“I understand the frustration, grief, and urgency that fuel your desire to march,” Brimah wrote. “But the fight against drugs is not about protest—it requires sustained, united, and strategic action from all of us. Not conflict, but cooperation.”
Brimah’s statement comes amid growing national concern over the rising tide of drug addiction and trafficking, particularly among Liberia’s youth. The August 7 demonstration—organized by civil society groups, religious leaders, and activists—aims to pressure the government into taking stronger action against the country’s escalating drug crisis.
While acknowledging the legitimacy of public frustration, Brimah warned that a single protest cannot dismantle the complex networks behind drug trafficking.
“Gathering at the Capitol won’t break down the supply chains and criminal syndicates poisoning our communities,” he said. “We need your vigilance in neighborhoods—not just your presence at political landmarks.”
Brimah also pointed to a troubling contradiction: the same communities rallying against drug abuse often protect and even praise those involved in the trade.
“Too often, our efforts are blocked by silence and complicity. In some cases, drug dealers are being shielded and celebrated within the very communities suffering the consequences,” he wrote. “Real change starts with ending this culture of protection.”
He encouraged families, local leaders, and residents to support the LDEA’s mission by taking tangible steps—like forming community watch groups, holding local awareness forums, advocating for stronger legislation, and supporting rehabilitation and youth intervention programs.
Brimah also acknowledged the LDEA’s operational challenges, including limited manpower and resources, and stressed the need for public partnership.
“We’re outnumbered and underfunded. This is not a fight the LDEA can win alone,” he said. “Your passion is powerful—but it must be directed toward lasting solutions, not short-term demonstrations.”
He concluded his letter with a call for national solidarity, describing Liberia’s drug crisis as a “national emergency” that demands unified, collective action.
