Monrovia – The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) has announced the seizure of 198 compressed plates of cocaine valued at more than US$19.2 million, marking one of the largest narcotics interceptions in Liberia’s recent history and a major victory in the country’s fight against transnational drug trafficking.
The drugs were intercepted on June 8, 2026, during a targeted operation at Roberts International Airport (RIA) after authorities acted on credible intelligence. According to the LDEA, the cocaine was concealed in six cargo boxes and was being prepared for export aboard a Brussels Airlines flight.
Addressing a press briefing on Monday, LDEA Officer-In-Charge and Deputy Commissioner of Police Fitzgerald T.M. Biago described the operation as a significant breakthrough that highlights the effectiveness of intelligence-led enforcement and strengthened collaboration among Liberia’s security institutions.
The Agency estimated the street value of the cocaine at approximately US$19,226,000, equivalent to more than LRD 3.65 billion.
“This seizure represents one of the most significant narcotics interceptions in recent times and demonstrates the effectiveness of the ongoing reforms, intelligence-driven operations, and strengthened interagency cooperation within Liberia’s security sector,” Biago declared.
Investigators have already identified several persons of interest, and authorities say efforts are underway to dismantle the entire criminal network behind the shipment.
“The LDEA remains fully committed to ensuring that every individual connected to this criminal network is identified, investigated, and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” Biago said.
The latest seizure adds to a growing list of achievements recorded under Biago’s leadership since his appointment as head of the Agency.
Earlier this year, the LDEA reported the arrest of 233 suspects nationwide during the first quarter of 2026, including Liberians and foreign nationals allegedly involved in drug trafficking and distribution networks. During the same period, the Agency confiscated more than 422 kilograms of assorted narcotics, including Kush, marijuana, Tramadol, and cocaine, with an estimated street value exceeding US$433,000.
One of the Agency’s most notable earlier operations involved the confiscation of approximately US$1.337 million at the Bo-Waterside border crossing in Grand Cape Mount County. Authorities believe the money was linked to transnational drug trafficking activities operating across Liberia’s borders.
Beyond enforcement operations, the LDEA has also pursued institutional reforms aimed at strengthening professionalism and accountability. More than 100 Action Agents have been enrolled in formal police training programs, while senior officers have undergone leadership and management courses. The Agency has additionally introduced mandatory drug testing for personnel and launched investigations into allegations of misconduct and evidence tampering.
According to the Agency’s First Quarter Report, intensified enforcement measures contributed to a dramatic decline in narcotics seizures when compared to the final quarter of 2025. Drug confiscations fell from more than 5,186 kilograms to 422 kilograms, a reduction of nearly 92 percent, which officials attribute to increased pressure on trafficking networks.
The latest airport operation is expected to further bolster confidence in Liberia’s anti-drug campaign as authorities intensify efforts to prevent the country from being used as a transit corridor for international narcotics trafficking.
“This operation sends an unequivocal message: Liberia is not a transit point, marketplace, or haven for drug traffickers,” Biago emphasized. “The LDEA will continue to relentlessly pursue criminal networks, secure our borders, and protect our citizens from the devastating effects of illicit drugs.”
The Agency commended Joint Security personnel, airport authorities, and other stakeholders whose cooperation contributed to the successful interception and pledged to continue strengthening partnerships in the fight against organized crime.
