By Vaye Lepolu
MONROVIA, Liberia – The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), in collaboration with joint security personnel at Roberts International Airport (RIA), has intercepted a major cocaine shipment valued at more than US$19 million, marking one of the country’s largest drug seizures in recent years.
According to the LDEA boss OIC Fitzgerald T. M Biago, the operation was carried out on June 8, 2026, following intelligence-led investigations and heightened security surveillance at the airport. Authorities discovered 198 compressed plates of cocaine concealed in six cargo boxes that were being processed for export to Europe via Brussels Airlines
The seized narcotics have an estimated street value of US$19,226,000 (approximately LRD 3.65 billion).
He said, the LDEA Officer-in-Charge Hon. Anthony K. Souh at the RIA described the operation as a significant breakthrough in Liberia’s ongoing fight against transnational drug trafficking. He said the successful interception reflects the impact of ongoing reforms, intelligence-driven operations, and strengthened cooperation among Liberia’s security agencies.
“Investigations are actively underway, and persons of interest have already been identified,” LDEA OIC stated, emphasizing its commitment to ensuring that all individuals connected to the trafficking network are investigated and prosecuted under Liberian law.
The agency reiterated that Liberia will not serve as a transit route, marketplace, or safe haven for international drug traffickers and pledged to continue pursuing criminal networks operating within and across the country’s borders.
Meanwhile, the Liberia Airport Authority (LAA) commended the joint efforts of airport security personnel, the LDEA, and other security stakeholders involved in the operation.
Speaking during a press briefing at LDEA headquarters, LAA Managing Director Ernest R. Hughues praised law enforcement officers for their vigilance and professionalism, noting that the seizure demonstrates Liberia’s determination to combat drug trafficking and organized crime.
“This operation sends a strong and unmistakable message to criminal networks that Liberia’s gateways are not safe havens for criminal activity,” he said.
The LAA reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening airport security, enhancing inter-agency collaboration, and maintaining strict compliance with international aviation and cargo security standards.
Authorities have assured the public that investigations remain ongoing and that those responsible will be brought before the courts to face justice.
Meanwhile, a shipment originating from Monrovia, Liberia, has been prepared for delivery of the 19. 2 Million USD Drug recipient in Birmingham, England, according to shipping information available.
The consignment was dispatched by EMRE VENN Group of Companies, located on 20th Street in Sinkor, Monrovia. Shipping records indicate that the package carries the reference number LR2310779368710
The intended recipient is Usman Ali, whose listed address is 29 Bordesley Green East, Bordesley Green, Birmingham, England. Contact information accompanying the shipment includes an international telephone number for the consignee.
Details regarding the contents, value, and purpose of the shipment were not immediately available. However, the transaction reflects ongoing commercial and logistical links between Liberia and the United Kingdom, facilitating the movement of goods across international borders.
Shipping and delivery processes are expected to proceed in accordance with applicable customs regulations and international freight requirements in both countries.
