MONROVIA – Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Fitzgerald T. M. Biago, the newly appointed Officer-in-Charge of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), has declared a strict zero-tolerance policy for drug trafficking and corruption within the agency, warning that any officer found undermining the agency’s work will be dismissed immediately.
Speaking Monday at the LDEA Headquarters in Monrovia during his official induction, DCP Biago issued a stern warning to both internal and external actors involved in the illicit drug trade, promising a no-nonsense approach to restoring integrity, discipline, and operational effectiveness within the agency.
“We must stand united in this critical battle against drugs,” Biago declared. “Any officer found undermining or compromising our efforts will be swiftly removed. There will be no room for saboteurs within our ranks. You are either with us in this fight, or you will be shown the way out.”
Biago’s remarks mark the beginning of a new chapter for the LDEA, which has faced mounting criticism in recent years over its inability to stem the tide of narcotics flowing into and through Liberia. The new chief’s comments reflect an aggressive shift in the agency’s approach to tackling a drug trade that many believe is endangering the country’s youth and national security.
“We are prepared to target traffickers, distributors, and their enablers with unwavering resolve,” he said. “Any attempt to undermine this fight—whether from within or outside the agency—will face decisive repercussions.”
Strategic Reset for LDEA
The new leadership intends to implement a robust internal reform strategy, focused on restoring public trust in the LDEA’s ability to execute its mandate. This includes stricter oversight, increased operational training, and collaboration with other security agencies and international partners.
DCP Biago also emphasized that he expects all officers under his command to exhibit professionalism, integrity, and commitment to duty.
“We cannot afford to fail the Liberian people. The safety of our communities, our children, and the future of this nation depend on the success of this agency,” he said.
Rising Drug Threat
Liberia has in recent years become a significant transit hub for international drug trafficking networks, with several high-profile seizures of cocaine and other narcotics reported at the Freeport of Monrovia and Roberts International Airport. Local drug abuse is also on the rise, particularly among young people in urban areas.
The government of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has made anti-drug efforts a national priority, citing the issue as a major threat to peace, security, and national development.
As DCP Biago takes the helm of the LDEA, public expectations are high that a more coordinated and resolute enforcement strategy will be rolled out to address this growing crisis.
