By Gareyson Y. Neufville
A controversial raid conducted by the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) in Pleebo City has sparked public criticism and suspicion following allegations that LRD$100,000 and US$6,000 went missing during the operation.
The claims were raised by the family of a Nigerian national arrested during the raid, prompting concerns about the agency’s handling of the search and the legality of its procedures.
Madam Shirley Bohlen, wife of the primary suspect, George Okojis, told reporters that the incident occurred on the morning of Friday, January 30, 2025, when LDEA officers searched their residence in Zone 7 of Pleebo City.
According to Bohlen, LDEA personnel instructed the family to declare all cash found in the house. She said she initially handed over LRD$100,000, which officers reportedly counted in her presence.
She further explained that officers later insisted she search for additional money, at which point she disclosed US$6,000, allegedly intended for her husband’s planned travel.
Bohlen claims that while the US$6,000 was acknowledged, the original LRD$100,000 was never returned.
The raid resulted in the arrest of three individuals: George Okojis, 47, a Nigerian national; Courage Bohlen, believed to be in her 20s; and Rena Fahnbulleh, 12. Fahnbulleh was later released, while the other two remain in custody.
During the operation, the LDEA reportedly confiscated approximately 290.4 grams of illegal substances, including raw and mixed heroin, cocaine, precursor chemicals, and a small quantity of marijuana.
The seized drugs were valued at an estimated US$16,594 and LRD$3,152,860.
Beyond the drug seizure, the allegations surrounding the missing cash have raised serious questions about the legality of the raid. Some legal observers argue that the search and seizure were conducted without a warrant, which could constitute a violation of due process and constitutional protections.
When contacted regarding the alleged missing money, Special Agent Kumoteh of the LDEA was unable to provide clear answers.
A phone call was also arranged with the primary suspect, George Okojis, but his voice was reportedly unclear, and he stated only, “I’m under pressure, so I can’t speak.”
The LDEA has denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that no money was taken during the raid.
According to Agent Kumoteh, the agency acted within the scope of the law, despite acknowledging that no search warrant was presented.
Meanwhile, residents of Pleebo City have expressed growing concern over the conduct of the raid.
Several community members criticized what they described as a lack of transparency and accountability, particularly regarding the handling of cash during the operation.
Calls are now mounting for a formal investigation into the actions of the LDEA officers involved, especially in relation to the alleged missing funds and the apparent breach of standard search procedures.
Courage Bohlen and George Okojis are expected to be forwarded to court.
Okojis remains in LDEA custody for alleged drug trafficking, while Bohlen is accused of facilitating the crime.
As public pressure continues to build, civil society actors and community members are demanding an independent inquiry.
The controversy surrounding the missing funds shows no sign of easing, placing the LDEA under increasing scrutiny and renewing calls for stronger oversight and accountability within the agency.
