By Patrick Teah Jr.
The General Town Chief of Bolloh Poe, Mr. Benjamin Coleman, has accused officers of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) and other security institutions of failing in their responsibility to enforce drug laws, warning that Poe is fast becoming a refuge for drug dealers due to what he described as a complete breakdown of justice.
Speaking to reporters on January 7, 2026, Chief Coleman expressed deep concern that individuals allegedly arrested for drug-related offenses are often seen back in the community within days, raising serious questions about the credibility and commitment of law enforcement agencies operating in the area.
“They are turning this town into a hustle ground,” Coleman said. “The same people who are arrested are back on the streets a few days later. That is not how law enforcement should work.”
The town chief alleged that drug traffickers routinely pay their way out of prosecution, a practice he said has emboldened dealers and allowed drug activity to flourish openly in the community.
According to him, this situation has led to a sharp rise in drug abuse, particularly among young people.
“Our community is no longer safe,” he warned. “Drug use is increasing because there is no justice coming from the officers assigned here.”
Chief Coleman also criticized the lack of transparency in the handling of drug cases in Poe.
He noted that while arrests are sometimes announced, there are no visible court proceedings, case files, or public updates, unlike drug cases reported in other parts of the country.
He further disclosed that toward the end of 2025, at least three individuals reportedly died from drug-related causes in Poe.
Despite reported arrests by LDEA officers following these incidents, the suspects were later seen freely moving within the community, further fueling public frustration and distrust.
“The message being sent is clear,” Coleman added. “Drug dealers are being protected, and the community has been left on its own.”
Beyond the drug crisis, the town chief highlighted what he described as a serious security gap in Poe.
Despite the town’s contribution to the economy of Grand Kru County and Liberia at large, he said there are no resident police officers, leaving residents exposed to theft and other criminal activities.
“Stealing is increasing because there is no police presence,” he lamented. “The absence of law enforcement is encouraging crime.”
Chief Coleman has called on the national government and senior security officials to urgently intervene, conduct independent oversight, and audit drug enforcement operations in Poe and throughout Grand Kru County.
As of the time of filing this report, the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency had not responded to the allegations.
Variety News will publish any official response once it is received.
