MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The House of Representatives has tasked its Committees on Youth and Sports and Health with reviewing a petition that calls for a ban on the import, sale, and use of shisha and kush in Liberia. This action was taken during a plenary session on Thursday, responding to growing concerns over the increasing drug crisis in the country. The petition, presented by Restoring Hope Foundation International, highlights the dangerous health risks posed by both substances, drawing attention to the rapid rise in addiction, particularly among young Liberians.
Shisha, often perceived as less harmful than cigarettes, has been linked to serious health issues, including heart disease, lung diseases, infections, and even cancer. The petition emphasizes that the harmful effects of shisha smoking are compounded by its high nicotine content and the presence of cancer-causing chemicals, making it just as dangerous as, if not more dangerous than, traditional cigarettes. Along with this, the petition also raised alarms over the growing use of kush, a potent synthetic drug that is emerging as a major health threat in Liberia, particularly among youth.
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, members of the House have tasked the respective committees with evaluating the proposal and providing their recommendations after the First Quarter Break. This move signals the legislature’s recognition of the urgency in addressing the national drug crisis.
In a related development, the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) made a significant drug bust in Foya District, Lofa County, where they intercepted a shipment valued at over $77,000. The authorities acted on intelligence received regarding a black pickup truck suspected of transporting illegal drugs. Upon inspection, they discovered 772 plates of high-grade marijuana worth an estimated $77,200 and eight boxes of Tramadol, valued at $842.
The driver, identified as 43-year-old Fayiah Lamie, a resident of Monrovia, initially claimed to be transporting clothing and slippers. However, after further investigation, law enforcement uncovered the concealed drugs. Lamie was arrested on the spot and is now facing charges related to drug trafficking.
LDEA officials have commended the successful operation but also cautioned that the fight against drug trafficking remains a challenge. Commander Kpehe Lomax of the Lofa County LDEA pointed out that limited resources, including inadequate transportation, are hindering the agency’s ability to effectively combat the increasing wave of drug trafficking in the region. Despite these challenges, Lomax reiterated the agency’s commitment to tackling Liberia’s growing drug problem and protecting the youth from the devastating effects of substance abuse.
