The Liberia Drugs Enforcement Agency (LDEA) has announced the dismissal of six of its officers after they tested positive for illegal drug use, in what the agency is calling a critical step toward reforming its ranks and restoring public confidence. The dismissals follow the completion of a mandatory drug testing exercise at the LDEA Headquarters and in Bomi County, part of a new accountability drive launched under the leadership of the agency’s Officer-in-Charge, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Fitzgerald Biago. Among those dismissed are five volunteer officers assigned to Bomi County: Larwou Yekeh, C. Tony Granett, Nyumah Millimono, Lawrence J. Fejue, and Milton Berh.
These individuals have been discharged from all LDEA activities with immediate effect. In addition to the volunteers, Roosevelt T. Kollie, a full-time LDEA employee identified by specimen number M-43SEC-3, has been suspended indefinitely and referred to the LDEA’s Professional Standards Division for further investigation. In a press statement read by Officer-in-Charge, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Fitzgerald Biago, the agency expressed disappointment over the results but reaffirmed its commitment to rooting out corruption and misconduct within its ranks. According to the LDEA Interim Boss, this move represents only the beginning of a broader effort to clean up the agency and uphold the integrity of Liberia’s fight against drugs.
It can be recalled, speaking at a press conference following his induction, DCP Biago said the drug testing initiative is a foundational part of the agency’s reform. He emphasized that Liberia cannot succeed in the fight against narcotics if the very individuals leading the charge are compromised. “As we confront this national emergency, we must first ensure that those leading the war against drugs are themselves beyond reproach,” Biago declared. “That is why we are launching a compulsory drug test for every LDEA officer across the country. This will set the tone for accountability, integrity, and discipline within our ranks.” Biago described the country’s drug epidemic as one of the most serious threats facing Liberia today.
He stressed that illicit drug use is destroying communities, endangering young people, and weakening national security. While acknowledging the challenges ahead, he expressed confidence in the agency’s ability to turn the tide through discipline, transparency, and collective national effort. This latest development also comes amid a separate internal review involving the LDEA’s operations at Roberts International Airport. All personnel stationed at the airport were recently recalled due to concerns of misconduct, and two officers are currently under investigation for allegedly underreporting the quantity of narcotics seized during a recent operation. The LDEA has reiterated its commitment to maintaining public trust and restoring dignity to the agency.
Officials have called on all Liberians to support ongoing efforts to fight drug abuse and trafficking, while also thanking international partners, local communities, and the media for their continued support. “To the Liberian people, we want you to know that your safety and the future of our youth remain our highest priority,” the agency stated. “The LDEA stands firm and unwavering in its commitment to deliver results that Liberians can trust.” The agency’s mandatory drug testing policy is expected to be rolled out nationwide in the coming weeks as part of its broader strategy to professionalize the institution and ensure that every officer is held to the highest standard of conduct.
Author: Zac T. Sherman
