PART I: Establishment, Functions, Powers, and Immunities
§22.102. Establishment of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency
The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) is established as a semi-autonomous agency under the supervisory authority of the Ministry of Justice. The LDEA is responsible for enforcing all laws regarding controlled drugs, substances, and precursors, serving as the implementing arm of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Board.
§22.103. Functions of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency
The LDEA shall:
- Formulate and monitor national programs for combating illicit drug trafficking and drug money laundering.
- Develop and implement anti-drug policies.
- Prevent and suppress the trafficking of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and other controlled substances.
- Assist in investigations and prosecutions of drug-related offenses.
- Establish a national drug intelligence system in collaboration with law enforcement agencies.
- Initiate and conduct training programs for personnel involved in drug enforcement operations.
§22.104. Powers and Duties of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency
The LDEA has the authority to:
- Arrest, search, and investigate drug offenders.
- Seize and take custody of illicit drugs, substances, and related assets.
- Develop and conduct drug eradication programs.
- Monitor and inspect cargo, parcels, and mail suspected of containing controlled substances.
- Coordinate with international drug control agencies.
- Deploy personnel at borders and ports to enforce drug-related regulations.
PART II: Organization and Structure
§22.106. Appointment of Director General and Deputies
The LDEA is led by a Director General, who is appointed by the President of Liberia with Senate approval. The Director General is supported by a Deputy Director for Operations and a Deputy Director for Administration.
§22.107. Duties of the Director General
The Director General shall:
- Oversee enforcement of drug laws and regulations.
- Supervise all departments and personnel of the LDEA.
- Represent the agency in national and international conferences.
- Ensure the implementation of policies and strategic guidelines.
§22.108. Duties of the Deputy Director for Operations
Responsible for intelligence and investigation services, compliance monitoring, and coordinating international cooperation on drug enforcement.
§22.109. Duties of the Deputy Director for Administration
Oversees human resources, financial management, logistics, and community engagement programs related to drug prevention.
PART III: The Controlled Drugs and Substances Board
§22.111. Establishment of the Board
The Controlled Drugs and Substances Board is responsible for formulating and developing national drug prevention and enforcement strategies. It consists of government ministers, agency directors, and representatives from civil society.
§22.115. Powers and Duties of the Board
The Board shall:
- Develop national drug prevention and control strategies.
- Oversee research and policy studies on drug enforcement.
- Monitor and regulate the collection of drug-related crime statistics.
- Ensure coordination with international drug enforcement bodies.
PART IV: Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Fund
§22.117. Establishment of the Fund
The Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Fund is created to support drug prevention, enforcement, and rehabilitation programs. It is funded through government allocations, confiscated drug proceeds, and international grants.
§22.119. Use of the Fund
Funds shall be used for:
- Drug abuse prevention campaigns.
- Rehabilitation of drug-dependent individuals.
- Supporting law enforcement activities related to drug crimes.
- Strengthening international cooperation in drug enforcement.
§22.121. Management of the Fund
The fund is managed by a Committee responsible for financial oversight, ensuring proper allocation and auditing of expenditures.
Effective Date
This Act took effect upon its approval on **October 17, 2014**, and was published into law on **October 23, 2014**.