–LDEA Cautions Public on Citizen-Led Actions Against Drug Dealers
MONROVIA – The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) has warned the public against organizing unsanctioned citizen-led raids on suspected drug dealers and users, cautioning that such actions risk escalating violence, violating human rights, and undermining legal due process.
The advisory, released on Tuesday,, comes amid citizen arrests and raid as well as growing public frustration over the proliferation of illicit drugs and the communities, known as “ghettos,” that house users and dealers, often referred to as “Zogos.”
In its statement, the LDEA acknowledged and appreciated the rising civilian support for its mission but strongly emphasized that all operations must be led or coordinated by its trained officers.
“We strongly advise that any intended action against suspected drug traffickers or drug-affected communities must be coordinated with the LDEA in advance,” the agency stated. “Uncoordinated citizen-led actions may pose serious risks to public safety, violate human rights, or compromise legal procedures.”
The LDEA’s warning highlights a critical tension in Liberia’s fight against a devastating drug epidemic. While communities are desperate to reclaim their neighborhoods from crime and addiction, the agency insists that mob justice is not the solution and could inadvertently victimize innocent individuals.
“It is important to remember that under Liberian law, everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty. An allegation does not automatically translate to guilt,” the release reminded citizens. The LDEA affirmed its commitment to “upholding the rule of law and adhering to international best practices.”
The agency outlined its standard procedure, noting that individuals arrested on suspicion of drug offenses will undergo formal testing and investigation by its “trained technicians and certified officers.” Only those found culpable will be charged and prosecuted through the court system.
Beyond enforcement, the LDEA statement also pointed to broader government efforts to address the root causes of the crisis, including “rehabilitat[ing] drug users [and] address[ing] homelessness among vulnerable populations.”
The public is urged to collaborate with the LDEA by reporting suspicious activity through its official channels rather than taking matters into their own hands. The agency can be reached directly via its hotline at 0777-133-333.
