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LDEA Arrests 34-Year-Old Man with Over 43kg of Heroin at Timbo River Checkpoint
Grand Bassa County, Liberia – December 13, 2023 –
Officers of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) Grand Bassa County detachment have made a major drug bust, arresting a 34-year-old man in possession of 43.3 kilograms of heroin and 4.64 kilograms of ‘Poscal’, a potent synthetic drug. The street value of the seized heroin is estimated at LD$900,000, while the ‘Poscal’ is worth approximately LD$10,450.
Details of the Arrest
The suspect, whose identity has been withheld pending further investigation, was traveling along the Grand Bassa-Sinoe highway when LDEA agents at the Timbo River Checkpoint intercepted his vehicle. Acting on intelligence reports, the officers conducted a routine search, uncovering multiple packages of heroin and Poscal concealed within the vehicle’s compartments.According to an LDEA spokesperson, the drugs were carefully wrapped and hidden to evade detection. The suspect initially denied any knowledge of the illicit substances, but preliminary investigations suggest he may be linked to a larger drug trafficking network operating across Liberia.
Suspect’s Intended Destination
Authorities believe the suspect was transporting the narcotics from Monrovia to Sinoe County, a region where drug trafficking and distribution networks have reportedly expanded in recent months. Law enforcement sources suspect the drugs were destined for local markets or intended for smuggling across Liberia’s porous borders.
LDEA’s Ongoing Anti-Drug Efforts
The Grand Bassa County LDEA Commander hailed the arrest as a significant victory in the fight against drug trafficking. “This is a major seizure for our team, and we remain committed to stopping the flow of illicit drugs into our communities. Liberia will not be a safe haven for traffickers,” the LDEA Commander stated. The suspect is currently in LDEA custody and will face prosecution under Liberia’s drug laws. If convicted, he could face severe penalties, including long-term imprisonment.
Impact on Drug Trafficking in Liberia
This arrest underscores Liberia’s growing battle against narcotics, particularly with the increasing prevalence of heroin, cocaine, and synthetic substances like Poscal and Kush. The government has recently ramped up anti-drug efforts, including: Enhanced security at key checkpoints to disrupt trafficking routes. Increased surveillance at border crossings to prevent smuggling. Stronger penalties for drug-related crimes, aimed at deterring traffickers.