The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) has confiscated a significant quantity of the illicit drug ( Tramadol ) during a security operation at the Tieni checkpoint in Grand Cape Mount County.
According to LDEA officials, the seizure involved 480 packs of Tramadol concealed in 40 cartons aboard a petroleum tanker belonging to Kailondo Petroleum Company. The vehicle, en route from Tieni to Monrovia, has since been impounded, and an investigation has been launched into the circumstances surrounding the discovery.
The total street value of the seized drugs is estimated at LD$9.6 million (approximately USD $50,526.32), according to LDEA Grand Cape Mount Commander Sandouno N. Faya.
Identified Suspects
Three individuals have been linked to the consignment. Among them is Edward Dagoseh Jr., 51, a resident of Jacob Town, Paynesville, and an employee of the Liberia Immigration Service (ID: LIS-J-16-14). Authorities believe he is the primary owner of the three bags containing the drugs.
Also detained is Ali Fofana, 41, a resident of Gardnersville and holder of Driver License No. DL013517.
A third individual, identified only as Siafa, was reportedly traveling with the group but fled the scene. He is currently being sought by authorities for questioning.
Kailondo Petroleum Owner Responds
Following the seizure, the LDEA issued an official invitation to Mr. George Kailondo, owner of Kailondo Petroleum Company, to appear at the agency’s headquarters in connection with the case.
Speaking to the press shortly after the incident, Mr. Kailondo confirmed ownership of the tanker but denied any connection to the drugs discovered onboard. He stated that the vehicle’s departure from Monrovia to Grand Cape Mount was made without his consent, though he acknowledged that his trucks are regularly used to distribute petroleum products.
“I am not aware of any drugs being transported in my truck. While our vehicles are used to distribute fuel and gas, this particular trip was made without my knowledge,” Kailondo told reporters.
National Crackdown on Drug Trafficking
The LDEA emphasized that this seizure forms part of its heightened crackdown on drug trafficking across the country. The Agency has intensified security checks at all border points, citing the increasing volume of illegal substances entering Liberia.
In a recent appeal, the Agency called on the public to continue sharing timely and credible information, noting that community cooperation is crucial to the ongoing fight against drugs.
The case comes amid a broader national campaign against narcotics, with President Joseph Nyumah Boakai having declared drug trafficking a national emergency. Under Liberian law, drug trafficking is a non-bailable offense.
As investigations continue, public attention remains focused on the LDEA’s next steps and the outcome of this high-profile case.
