Though LDEA has confiscated the cocaine value L$3.6 billion or US$19.2 million it seized from RIA, the Agency is yet to name anyone connected to the trade. It confirmed inviting person-of-interest (not named) for investigation.
The leadership of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) has seized “illegal narcotics” valued at more than L$3.6 billion (US$19.2 million) as contained in the Agency press’ statement.
The drugs were seized at Roberts International Airport (RIA) as one of the country’s major drug interceptions the Agency has executed.
Confirmed information had it that the confiscated drugs have an estimated street value of over US$19,226,000, equivalent to approximately L$3,652,940,000 that was destined for export via Brussels Airlines.
Authorities say the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and strengthen security at the nation’s main international gateway.
The seizure highlights growing concerns about the use of regional transit routes for the movement of illegal substances.
The LDEA is expected to provide further details regarding the type of drugs seized, the circumstances surrounding the operation, and whether any arrests have been made in connection with the case.
Meanwhile LDEA has announced the interception of a significant shipment of cocaine, amounting to an estimated street value of US$19, 226, 000.
The operation, which took place on Monday, June 8, at RIA, LDEA said, saw law enforcement officials confiscated 198 compressed plates of cocaine concealed within six cargo boxes, destined for export to Europe.
The LDEA, in collaboration with Airport security personnel, conducted the operation following credible intelligence regarding suspicious activity that involved outbound cargo shipments.
Fitzgerald T.M. Biago, LDEA officer -In-Charge, highlighted the importance of interagency cooperation in successfully executing this targeted operation.
“This seizure represents one of the most significant narcotics interceptions in recent times, and demonstrates the effectiveness of ongoing reforms within the security sector.”
The statistics from the seizure revealed that the total weight of the confiscated cocaine amounted to 237.6 kilograms, with each plate weighing approximately 1.2 kilograms.
Biago: “The substantial haul is not only a blow against drug trafficking organizations, but also a testament to the exceptional vigilance and professionalism of the LDEA, and the various stakeholders involved in maintaining security at our various ports of entrance.”
The LDEA, he said, remains steadfast in its commitment to combat transnational drug trafficking and ensure that individuals connected to this operation are brought to justice.
While investigations are actively underway, with persons of interest (not named), already identified, as authorities work to dismantle the networks facilitating drug trade within and beyond Liberia’s borders.
Liberia Airport Authority Managing Director, Ernest R. Hughe, warned that there will be no “business as usual” would be tolerated in the instant.
Though, LDEA is yet to name any person(s) of interest, Hughe assured the public that the airport would remain secure and uncompromising against criminal activity.
He said, the operation serves as a strong message that gateways will not serve as safe havens for drug traffickers.
Hughe said, Liberia continues to confront the challenges posed by drug trafficking, the commitment of law enforcement agencies to uphold the rule of law and protect the nation’s integrity remains unwavering.
“This seizure not only reflects the heightened operational capabilities of the LDEA, but also reinforces the importance of collective action in the fight against illicit drug trafficking, ensuring a safer environment for all Liberians.”
