$19.2M RIA Cocaine Seizure Exposes Liberia’s Vulnerability as West African Transit Route: LDEA Hails “Breakthrough” But Questions Remain on Border Security And Cargo Screening
BY: Rufus Divine Brooks Jr
Monrovia,Liberia— The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency has announced one of the largest narcotics seizures in recent history after intercepting 198 compressed plates of cocaine valued at US$19.2 million at Roberts International Airport, in what officials describe as a major disruption to a transnational trafficking network.
At a press briefing on Tuesday , LDEA Officer-In-Charge DCP Fitzgerald T.M. Biago said the bust followed credible intelligence and a targeted operation by Joint Security officers stationed at RIA on June 8, 2026.
The cocaine, concealed in six cargo boxes and with an estimated street value of LRD 3.65 billion, was packaged for export via Brussels Airlines.
DCP Biago told journalists the seizure underscores the impact of ongoing security reforms, intelligence-led policing, and improved interagency coordination.
He was flanked by Deputy Officer-In-Charge for Administration and Investigation Ernest T. Tapeh and Deputy Officer-In-Charge for Operations ACP Patrick Kormazu, alongside officers of the Joint Security and airport authorities.
The LDEA confirmed that investigations are actively underway and that “persons of interest” have been identified.
Biago vowed that every individual linked to the criminal network will be tracked, investigated, and prosecuted in accordance with Liberian law.
He warned that traffickers should expect intensified surveillance at air, sea, and land borders as the agency continues to dismantle drug syndicates operating in the region.
The LDEA chief extended appreciation to Joint Security partners, RIA authorities, civil society, and the public for their vigilance and cooperation.
He reiterated the agency’s commitment to protecting Liberians from the social and health consequences of illicit drugs.
The seizure comes amid heightened regional concern over West Africa’s role as a transit corridor for cocaine moving from South America to Europe.