Grand Bassa County is now facing a troubling situation where its youthful population is gradually wearing away due to the smuggling, selling, and consumption of harmful substances.
The matter is worsening day by day with teenagers being used as middlemen to transact and transport drugs in the county, especially Buchanan City.
The most recent is a 12-year-old kid named Acady from the Sugarcane Farm Community in Grand Bassa County who was allegedly used as a middleman to carry on drug trafficking operations, at the same a drug addict.
Local reporters have uncovered that Acady has been actively involved in facilitating drug deals, with his mother, whom he identified as “Harvest”, allegedly orchestrating the operation and introducing him to the illegal business.
Our investigation uncovered that the situation has become complicated, leading to a tragic incident involving a teenager, name Adam Chea, who died after consuming a harmful substance popularly known as Kush.
Acady was the supplier of the drugs that victim Adam Chea consumed before he could die.
The drug crisis In Grand Bassa reflects a broader issue affecting Liberia as a whole.
The teenager only identified as Arcady and a resident of Sugarcane Farm Community is said to be a major transporter and Bridge between the drug users and dealers in the County.
According to reports, the 12-year-old kid who was initiated by his biological mother, and his continued involvement into his self-destructive hobby of selling and consuming“kush” and marijuana has led to nearby neighbors fearing him.
The 12- year- old teenager in Bassa explained about his last encounter with 21 years old Adam Chea who was found dead Saturday morning in the Joe Quarter Community after consuming “kush”, stating: “ley tin it can make me cook”.
Illicit drug consumption and sales among teenagers is becoming a common practice in the Port City of Buchanan.
It also appears to be more widespread and there is statistical evidence that teens are getting involved in drug use as early as 12–14 years old.
The rise in drug trafficking and abuse has led to numerous social and economic challenges, including increased crime rates, health crises, and weakened community structures.
Substance abuse has somehow contributed to public health crises, with rising incidences of sicknesses and untimely deaths among young people.
According to United Nations Survey in Liberia as of July 8, 2024, over one million Liberians use drugs and other harmful substances.
Efforts to combat drug trafficking are ongoing, but the situation requires comprehensive strategies and support from both local and international stakeholders.
Addressing the drug crisis involves strengthening law enforcement, improving public health interventions, and fostering community resilience.
As Liberia continues to face these challenges, the need for a unified and sustained approach to tackle drug-related issues has become ever more critical.
By: Blessed D. Kpenkennie
