By Precious D. Freeman
The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) has raised renewed alarm over the growing use and distribution of Kush, a highly addictive and dangerous narcotic substance wreaking havoc across Liberian communities.
Kush has emerged as one of the most pressing threats to public health and safety in Liberia, especially among young people.
According to LDEA officials, the drug is often laced with toxic and unregulated chemicals, posing severe risks to users’ physical and mental well-being.
Health professionals and community leaders warn that the impact of Kush is becoming a silent crisis, with increasing cases of erratic behavior, hallucinations, and drug-induced psychosis being reported.
The drug’s prevalence is believed to be contributing to a rise in school dropouts, youth violence, and social disintegration, particularly in underserved neighborhoods.
The danger of Kush goes beyond just addiction. It affects the brain, disrupts lives, and is robbing youth of their future.
Security agencies are also deeply concerned about the drug’s link to rising petty crimes and community unrest.
In response, the LDEA has intensified its nationwide crackdown, focusing on key checkpoints and suspected hotspots of narcotics activity.
In a recent statement, the LDEA reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks across Liberia.
“We are working around the clock to intercept these substances and dismantle the networks behind them,” said an agency spokesperson. “But we cannot do this alone. We need the public’s help.”
Experts and civil society organizations argue that enforcement alone is not enough.
They are advocating for a broader approach that includes public education, youth empowerment, and increased access to drug rehabilitation services.
Worried parents have begun sounding the alarm as well. Many report behavioral changes in their children, including aggression, social withdrawal, and poor academic performance.
Yet, stigma and limited mental health resources continue to prevent families from seeking help.
To illustrate the urgency of the crisis, the LDEA has shared details of two recent drug arrests.
On April 27, 2025, 20-year-old Kofi Boyee was arrested at the Kwatatuzon checkpoint in Sinoe County after officers discovered 23 grams of Kush in his possession.
The seized drugs had an estimated street value of US$460, or L$87,400.
Following a preliminary investigation, Boyee was formally charged in line with Liberia’s drug laws and forwarded to court for prosecution.
The arrest was part of a broader strategy targeting the illegal distribution of narcotics in rural areas where law enforcement presence is limited.
A day earlier, on April 26, 2025, the LDEA also arrested Daniel B. Johnson, a 48-year-old Liberian man in Gbongor Village, Bomi County.
Acting on a court-approved search warrant, LDEA officers raided Johnson’s residence at approximately 7:00 AM and discovered a stockpile of illegal substances.
The search resulted in the seizure of 3.3 plates of marijuana, valued at US$325 or LD 61,750, and six straps of tramadol, worth US$60 or LD 11,400.
Johnson, who works in the construction sector, was promptly charged and is now facing prosecution.
The LDEA described both arrests as evidence of the growing scale of the drug crisis and reiterated its resolve to fight back.
“These cases reflect the dangerous extent to which drugs have permeated our communities,” one officer noted. “We are committed to pushing back.”
As part of its ongoing campaign, the LDEA is encouraging Liberians to remain alert and report any suspected drug-related activities.
“Community cooperation is not optional, it is essential,” the agency said. “Together, we can protect our youth and restore safety to our neighborhoods.”
