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LDEA Burns US$37 Million Worth of Cocaine Seized at Free Port of Monrovia
Monrovia, Liberia – February 8, 2023 –
The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), in collaboration with national security agencies, has publicly destroyed a consignment of cocaine valued at over US$37 million. The illicit substances were confiscated from suspected traffickers operating through the Free Port of Monrovia in one of the largest drug seizures in the country’s history. The destruction of the contraband took place at an undisclosed high-security location under strict supervision from government officials, law enforcement agencies, international partners, and representatives of civil society organizations.
Major Drug Bust at Free Port of Monrovia
The high-value cocaine shipment was intercepted following a joint intelligence operation that led to the arrest of several individuals connected to an international drug syndicate. Authorities revealed that the drugs were hidden within a consignment of frozen food imports in an attempt to evade detection. Speaking at the burning event, LDEA Director General reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks and ensuring that Liberia does not become a transit hub for international drug cartels.
“This seizure and destruction send a clear message that Liberia will not tolerate drug trafficking in any form. We will continue to collaborate with our international partners to combat the rising threat of narcotics in our country,” the LDEA chief stated.
Liberia’s Growing Battle Against Narcotics
The LDEA has significantly intensified its efforts in recent months, conducting major drug raids, border crackdowns, and intelligence-led operations. Liberia’s strategic location along the West African coast has made it a target for international drug traffickers attempting to smuggle narcotics into Europe and North America.
Officials say this operation underscores the importance of regional and global cooperation in fighting transnational crime. The LDEA continues to work closely with organizations such as INTERPOL, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to strengthen Liberia’s anti-narcotics capacity.
Government’s Stance on Drug Trafficking
The Liberian government, under President Joseph Boakai, has reinforced its anti-drug policies and pledged to introduce harsher penalties for drug traffickers and smugglers. Plans are also underway to increase funding for drug enforcement operations and enhance training for LDEA officers. “We must protect our country from the devastating impact of narcotics. Drugs destroy lives, fuel crime, and threaten our nation’s future. This destruction event symbolizes our unwavering fight against the drug epidemic,” a government spokesperson stated.
