The maxim: “one apple spoils the whole tree,” came to light on Tuesday, September 7, when officers of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) arrested a personnel of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) with illicit drug.
The soldier (not named) was arrested in Bong County with tramadol with street valued of US$ 9,777, according to sources familiar with the trade.
The soldier, reportedly assigned in Lofa County, was intercepted in Sanoyea District, Lower Bong County, during an intelligence-led operation by the LDEA agents.
Sources alleged that the soldier was transporting the controlled substance for suspected commercial purposes.
He has since being transferred to the LDEA headquarters in Monrovia for further investigation.
Investigators are expected to establish the source, and intended destination of the tramadol, and determine whether others were involved.
While AFL hierarchy is yet to speak to soldier’s arrest, LDEA has confirmed he information.
The arrest of the soldier came amidst the fight against illicit drugs across the country.
LDEA: “Yes, it is confirmed. We have the soldier in our custody undergoing investigation. We will disclose further information as the investigation progresses.”
LDEA is the semi-autonomous national law enforcement institution mandated to enforce laws related to controlled drugs, substances, and precursors. (https://www.moj.gov.lr/general/drug-enforcement-agency)
The core mandate, and functions are to implement the controlled drugs, and substances Act of 2023, giving the Agency the legal authority to investigate, arrest, seize illicit items, and refer cases for prosecution.
It is to also disrupt networks, dismantle, and eliminate illicit drug trafficking, distribution networks, and transnational organized crime; reduce substance abuse, and support public health, safety, and national security.
