Drug Trafficking Raises Renewed Alarm

Former Bong County Electoral District #2 representative candidate, Jerry Kerkulah Kollie, has raised concerns over the fight against drug trafficking.

Kollie, also retired Captain of the Armed Forces of Liberia, warned that weaknesses within the security system could undermine efforts to confront the growing drug problem.

He has meanwhile, called for a more independent, professional, and coordinated national response to drug trafficking.

Kollie argued that the responsibility should not be left solely in the hands of government officials, or a single security institution.

He says citizens, civil society organizations, security professionals, and other stakeholders should play a stronger role to identify, and disrupt drug-trafficking networks.

Kollie has also called for a permanent, and stronger presence of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) at Roberts International Airport, and other strategic points of entry.

He proposed further that LDEA personnel be included in the security details of senior government officials, including the president, vice president, and speaker of the House of Representatives.

Kollie argues that the additional presence could strengthen oversight within official convoys, and reduce opportunities for individuals travelling with government delegations to transport illegal drugs without the knowledge of senior officials.

He described the drug trade as a “chain” that extends beyond the country.

He also warned that the national security interests must not be sacrificed for political, or financial considerations.