Monrovia, Liberia – August 26, 2025
The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) has suspended its Chief of Operations, Major Abraham O. Payne, following the emergence of multiple leaked audio recordings and a video by this paper allegedly implicating him in ordering the release of his daughter after she was reportedly arrested in a ghetto with other drug dealers and addicts.
In the audios, which went viral and sparked widespread public debate, Major Payne is alleged to have instructed a junior officer to free his daughter immediately. The officer, who reportedly resisted the order, was allegedly threatened by Major Payne for attempting to enforce the law.
LDEA Director General, Hon. Anthony K. Souh, confirmed the suspension on Tuesday, noting that Payne has been referred to the Board of Internal Inquiry and Professional Standards (BIIPS) for investigation.
“The Agency frowns upon such alleged actions which, if proven, undermine the integrity of the LDEA and compromise the fight against illicit drugs,” Souh said in a statement.
He further assured the public that the LDEA maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against unprofessional and unethical behavior. “No officer, regardless of rank, will be spared if caught in misconduct,” the statement emphasized.
The outcome of the ongoing investigation will be released to the public once completed.
