MONROVIA – Bong County District #6 Representative Moima Briggs-Mensah has successfully rallied the House of Representatives to summon the leadership of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) to answer for its handling of the massive US$19.2 million cocaine seizure at Roberts International Airport (RIA).
Citing immediate need for legislative oversight, Rep. Briggs-Mensah delivered a formal communication to Plenary that led to the order for LDEA officials to appear on Tuesday. While acknowledging the seizure as a tactical success, the lawmaker warned that the incident exposes deep cracks in Liberia’s border security and cargo inspection protocols.
“Despite significant government and donor investment—including training, logistics, equipment, and budget support—questions remain about the agency’s overall effectiveness,” Rep. Briggs-Mensah said, highlighting the nation’s growing profile as a transit hub for international drug cartels.
The lawmaker further demanded transparency beyond the press release, noting that major seizures are often publicized but rarely followed by clear updates on arrests, prosecutions, or convictions.
Acting on her communication, Plenary has directed the LDEA to provide:
· A full briefing on the RIA cocaine seizure.
· An assessment of how government and donor aid has improved anti-drug operations.
· The current status of investigations and prosecutions tied to major drug busts.
· Concrete steps to strengthen border security and cargo screening nationwide.
Lawmakers, backing Rep. Briggs-Mensah’s concerns, stressed that the fight against illicit drugs is a national emergency. The LDEA leadership is expected to appear in person, with testimony made public as part of the House’s constitutional oversight mandate.
