By Precious D. Freeman
Acting on credible intelligence received on April 19, 2025, the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) launched a high-impact operation targeting illegal drug activity in the Ruth Perry Community, near the Police Academy area in Paynesville.
The operation resulted in the arrest of a suspected dealer and the seizure of a massive cache of marijuana with an estimated street value of nearly US $295,000.00
Led by the Deputy Commander of the Zimbabwe Detail, LDEA agents initiated a controlled “buy and bust” operation, purchasing LD$1,000 worth of suspected narcotics from the target.
Following the transaction, a tactical LDEA team moved in swiftly and arrested the suspect, identified as 35-year-old Dominic Morlue, a Liberian national and resident of the Bassa Town Community in Paynesville.
With Morlue’s consent, LDEA officers conducted a thorough search of his operational base. The search uncovered a staggering quantity of illicit substances: 100 compressed plates of marijuana (Lawo), 13 uncompressed Lawo, and 454 processed compressed marijuana units.
Authorities estimate the combined street value of the narcotics at approximately US$295,000 or LR$56,050,000, making it one of the largest single marijuana seizures in recent months.
According to preliminary findings, the case may be linked to a broader network of transnational organized crime involved in the trafficking and distribution of illegal drugs within and beyond Liberia’s borders.
Investigators are now expanding their efforts to trace the origins and connections of the operation, including possible international ties.
Suspect Dominic Morlue remains in custody at LDEA headquarters as investigators prepare formal charges.
The agency has promised a comprehensive prosecution as it continues its crackdown on drug-related crimes.
In a statement issued by the Public Relations Section, the LDEA reaffirmed its commitment to disrupting drug trafficking networks and enhancing public safety.
“This operation is a strong message to those involved in the illegal drug trade—we will find you, and we will bring you to justice,” the statement read.
