President Joseph N. Boakai, Sr. has taken decisive action to restructure the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), relieving its top three officials of their duties with immediate effect. The move follows the emergence of an audio recording on social media allegedly implicating a senior agency figure in efforts to secure the release of his daughter, reportedly caught in possession of illegal drugs. The officials dismissed are Mr. Anthony K. Souh, Director General, Mr. Gwee K. Porkpah, Deputy Director General for Administration, Mr. Sebastian Far and Deputy Director General for Operations The President’s decision comes amid growing public concern over the integrity of Liberia’s drug enforcement efforts and reflects his administration’s commitment to intensifying the national response to illicit drug activity. To ensure continuity and restore public confidence, President Boakai has appointed an Interim Management Team composed of seasoned law enforcement and intelligence professionals which include DCP Fitzgerald T. M. Biago (Liberia National Police)–Officer-in-Charge, Mr. Ernest T. Tarpeh (National Security Agency) – Deputy for Administration/Investigation, ACP Patrick B. Kormazu (Liberia National Police) – Deputy for Operations The President expressed confidence in the team’s ability to uphold professionalism and integrity during this transitional period. “This action is part of our broader effort to build a drug-free Liberia,” President Boakai stated in an Executive Mansion release. “We must reverse the current unacceptable situation and protect our youth from the devastating impact of narcotics.” In addition to the leadership overhaul, the President has instructed the Minister of Justice to conduct a comprehensive review of the LDEA’s organizational structure, operational procedures, and mandate. The review is expected to yield recommendations within 90 days. The Interim Management Team will report directly to the justice minister, who will provide regular updates to the President. President Boakai reiterated that drug abuse and trafficking pose a serious threat to Liberia’s future, fueling crime, violence, and social instability. He called on the new leadership to intensify efforts to intercept narcotics, dismantle trafficking networks, and promote community resilience against substance abuse. The dismissals mark a critical juncture in Liberia’s anti-drug campaign and signal the administration’s resolve to restore institutional credibility and safeguard public welfare.
