By: Emmanuel Tobotinho Quiah
Maryland and Grand Gedeh Counties recently witnessed the destruction of large quantities of illicit substances by the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), amounting to millions of Liberian dollars as it intensified its nationwide campaign.
The destruction in the two counties formed part of activities marking this year’s International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (World Drug Day).
In Maryland County, the LDEA destroyed illicit drugs valued at US$17,763, equivalent to approximately LR$3,286,155, during a ceremony held at the agency’s Central Office in Harper City over the weekend.
The event brought together the Maryland County Attorney, members of the Joint Security, human rights advocates, and other stakeholders committed to combating the illegal drug trade.
Speaking during the program, Maryland County LDEA Chief of Operations, Special Agent John Williams McGee, disclosed that the destroyed drugs were confiscated between June 26, 2025, and June 26, 2026.
He said the seized substances included raw cocaine, raw heroin, mixed heroin, kush, marijuana, tramadol, and precursor chemicals.
When questioned by reporters about the specific locations where the drugs were confiscated within Maryland County, the county commander declined to provide details, stating that he could not comment on the matter.
Meanwhile, in Grand Gedeh County, the LDEA destroyed illegal drugs valued at more than L$10 million during a public burning exercise in Zwedru, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse.
The exercise was witnessed by local authorities, community members, and security personnel.
According to the agency, the drugs were seized during a series of operations conducted across various parts of Grand Gedeh County over the past several months.
LDEA officials described the destruction as a strong warning to individuals involved in the illegal drug trade, emphasizing that there will be no safe haven for drug traffickers in the county.
The agency noted that illegal drugs continue to pose a serious threat to Liberia’s youth by contributing to crime, violence, addiction, and family breakdown. Officials stressed that they remain committed to removing dangerous substances from communities and protecting the public.
The LDEA also called on citizens to support the fight against illegal drugs by providing credible information that could lead to the arrest of traffickers and dealers, assuring the public that all reports would be treated with strict confidentiality.
In addition to law enforcement efforts, the agency said it will continue collaborating with local leaders, schools, religious institutions, and youth organizations to promote awareness of the dangers of drug abuse and strengthen prevention initiatives.
The simultaneous destruction of illicit drugs in Maryland and Grand Gedeh counties underscores the LDEA’s ongoing commitment to dismantling drug networks, reducing substance abuse, and safeguarding communities across Liberia.
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