LDEA Warns Citizens against Uncoordinated Ghetto Raids -Says Citizens Must Seek Coordination with Agency

By: George C. Flomo

MONROVIA  – The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) has cautioned citizens against carrying out uncoordinated raids on suspected drug dealers, ghettos, and individuals commonly referred to as “zogos”.

In a release issued Tuesday, August 19, 2025, the Agency warned that such actions could undermine public safety and the rule of law.

The LDEA says while it acknowledges supports from communities in the national fight against illicit drugs, it is safe and constructive for Liberians to work directly with the Agency when planning any action against suspected drug traffickers or users.

“While we appreciate the solidarity of citizens in the fight against drugs, uncoordinated actions may pose serious risks to public safety, violate human rights, or compromise legal procedures,” the Agency stated.

The LDEA emphasized that it is the only legally mandated institution responsible for drug-related enforcement in Liberia and has the trained personnel and certified officers required to conduct investigations and drug testing in accordance with national and international standards.

The Agency reminded the public that under Liberian law, all accused persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

As such, allegations alone do not amount to guilt, and anyone arrested must undergo due process before being charged and forwarded to court for prosecution.

National Drug Crisis

Liberia is grappling with a worsening drug crisis, particularly among young people, many of whom are being lost to substance abuse.

President Joseph N. Boakai has already declared drug abuse a national health emergency, and multiple government ministries and agencies, including the LDEA, are spearheading efforts to combat the epidemic.

The LDEA disclosed that alongside enforcement, it is working with the Government of Liberia and partners to expand rehabilitation services, address homelessness among vulnerable populations, and develop sustainable strategies to reduce the long-term impact of drug abuse.

Call for Collaboration

The Agency encouraged all citizens to collaborate with law enforcement by reporting suspicious drug activities directly to its offices rather than taking unilateral actions.

“The LDEA remains unwavering in its fight against illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse across Liberia,” the release noted. “We call on the public to report all drug-related activities to the LDEA hotline at 0777-133-333.”

Authorities say the fight against drugs is a shared national responsibility, but stressed that it must be pursued through lawful, coordinated means to ensure both effectiveness and the protection of human rights.