Monrovia: The Customs Department of the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) says, it has transferred three boxes of confiscated narcotic drugs and 13 pieces of guns to the appropriate government authorities for investigation.
The illicit drugs were transported into the Country via Kenya Airways flight (KQ 508) on September 11, 2023.
They were uncovered during a routine inspection of cargo within the RIA Cargo warehouse.
“These narcotics, as indicated on the Airway Bill, were originally imported into the country by Mr. Sam Siryon, the same individual associated with a recent drug seizure incident at Roberts International Airport (RIA)”, the news article states.
KMTV news is yet to independently verify whether the name mentioned in the LRA news article links Freedom FM’s Chief Executive officer, Mr. Sam Siryon as the LRA communications department remains tight lipped on the full identity of the alleged criminal.
The boxes of narcotic drugs according to a Thursday, September 21, 2023 release of the Customs Department of LRA, were relinquished to the Liberia Drugs Enforcement Agency (LDEA) at the Roberts International Airport (RIA) at an official turnover ceremony.
The article further quotes agent Edmond B. Reed, Officer-In-Charge of Customs Investigations, at the handover ceremony as saying, “this marks the second shipment of Organic Stevia Green Tea Leaf, which the LDEA has confirmed to contain Methamphetamine.”
Methamphetamine, often referred to as “meth,” is a potent and highly addictive central nervous system stimulant. It is a synthetic drug that affects the brain and body, leading to increased energy, alertness, and a sense of euphoria when used.
According to research, it is illegal to possess, use, or distribute methamphetamine in most countries due to its high risk of addiction and associated health and societal problems.
Meanwhile, on Wednesday, September 20, the Customs Department transferred 13 Short Single-Barrel firearms to the Joint Security in Zorzor City, Lofa County.
The firearms were discovered while being smuggled into the Country through the Yeala Customs Business Office (CBO) in Lofa County, bordering Guinea.
The alleged smuggler, identified as Saika Fofanah from Kakata City in Margibi County, entered Liberia from Guinea, concealing the firearms in bags, that’s according to LRA. Suspect Fofanah is currently in the custody of the joint security. Both the confiscated drugs and firearms are subjects of ongoing investigations in accordance with Liberian law.