LDEA Chief Announces Campaign Against Drug Trafficking in Liberia
The LDEA has declared a strong stance against drug trafficking, stating Liberia will no longer be a transit point for illicit drugs. A recent operation led to the arrest of a Nigerian national with cocaine at the Bo-Waterside border. The agency aims to prevent drug inflow and improve enforcement by training officers in advanced detection techniques. The government seeks regional cooperation to address cross-border smuggling and urges citizens to report suspicious activities.
The Director General of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), Atty. Anthony Souh, announced a crackdown on international drug trafficking during a press conference. He stated that Liberia will no longer serve as a transit location for illicit drugs, following a significant operation that led to the apprehension of 2.34 kilograms of raw cocaine valued at approximately $126,000. This operation took place at the Bo-Waterside border and resulted in the arrest of a Nigerian national, David Dioumessy, who tried to conceal the drugs in his suitcase.
During the press conference, Atty. Souh elaborated on how police were tipped off about Dioumessy’s suspicious behavior. Upon seeing security checks, the suspect attempted to abandon his suitcase but was apprehended by LDEA officers who had been surveilling him. Subsequently, an inspection revealed expertly hidden cocaine within the suitcase’s lining, after which the drugs were tested in the presence of UNODC representatives, confirming their authenticity.
Atty. Souh emphasized that drug traffickers exploit Liberia’s current low-risk status for smuggling operations targeting Europe and the U.S. He articulated a firm stance against such activities, stating, “Liberia will not be a safe passage for drug cartels.” The LDEA is shifting its strategy towards preventing drug inflow and not just arresting local users, to enhance the safety of children in Liberia.
As drug smugglers employ sophisticated concealment techniques, Atty. Souh mentioned that LDEA officers have received advanced training in drug detection. He noted that modern methods involve embedding drugs within the fabric of luggage, which complicates detection. He assured the public of his agency’s growing capability to counteract these tactics effectively.
The recent seizure follows another heroin interception tied to international drug smuggling from Thailand. Atty. Souh revealed that ongoing investigations have uncovered local accomplices aiding traffickers and warned property owners against allowing such activities. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious behavior to aid in the campaign against drug trafficking.
The suspect Dioumessy has been transferred to Monrovia for legal action, and the LDEA is collaborating with Guinean authorities to address cross-border drug smuggling. Atty. Souh reassured the public of the government’s commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks, stating, “We will go after the importers, the financiers, and the masterminds behind this illegal trade.” With bolstered border surveillance and public cooperation, Liberia aims to eradicate drug trafficking in the country.
In summary, the LDEA has declared war on drug traffickers, emphasizing its commitment to preventing Liberia from becoming a transit hub for illicit drugs. A focused strategy to halt drug inflow and enhance law enforcement measures is underway, alongside public vigilance and collaboration with international authorities to combat drug trafficking effectively.
Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com
