MONROVIA – Hon. Abraham Darius Dillon, the Senator of Montserrado County, is not mincing his words regarding the infighting at the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA). While on a delegation visit to South Korea with President Boakai, Senator Dillon took to social media to express his strong opinion on the matter. He described the situation at the LDEA as “embarrassing” and called for immediate action, stating, “Time for action … change or be changed. Either ONE or BOTH must (should) be replaced – with immediacy!!”
Senator Dillon’s comments come in the wake of a serious altercation at the LDEA headquarters in Monrovia between Director General Abraham Kromah and his Deputy Director General of Operations, Hassan Fadiga. The infighting, which also involved their loyal officers, has resulted in increased police presence at the scene yesterday, June 3, 2024, with Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman intervening to de-escalate the situation.
Though the full details of the infighting have not been disclosed, insiders suggest that the dispute centers around power dynamics, with both officials refusing to acknowledge each other’s authority. This marks the second significant altercation between Kromah and Fadiga this year, following a heated verbal exchange in April that nearly escalated to physical violence. Reports indicate that during the recent incident, Fadiga even instructed his driver to retrieve his weapon, though the driver refused, highlighting the severity of the situation.
At a press conference yesterday at the LDEA headquarters, Director Kromah vented his frustration amid the continued infighting at the Agency. He stated, “I regret recommending my deputies. The mixture is not a good mixture. Basically, we have to sit down around the leader to see if we can find a way out of this quagmire because Liberians are dying, kids are dying. We have to find a way to protect them and support them.”
The ongoing infighting between these high-ranking officials raises serious concerns about the stability and unity of the LDEA. Internal disputes of this nature can significantly obstruct the effective operation and mission of the Agency, which is crucial in combating drug-related crimes in Liberia. The government must urgently intervene to address the situation at the LDEA and prevent further escalation of tensions.
Public reaction on social media has been vocal, with many expressing frustration and calling for decisive action. Maimah Jackson wrote, “They both need to be investigated, something is not right!!!” Rhodoxon Fayiah suggested, “The deputy should go. The Boss is the Boss.” Siafa Jallah and William Bando echoed calls for the removal of both officials, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a clear chain of command and effective leadership. Eddie Harmon added, “We can’t be worrying about our kids on these drugs issues and officials are fighting each other. We worry so much about what is going on at the LDEA.”
The unfolding infighting between Director Kromah and Deputy Fadiga underscores the urgent need for government action. Addressing these internal conflicts is essential to maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the LDEA in its fight against drug-related crimes in Liberia. The government’s intervention is needed to resolve the disputes and restore stability within the Agency.
Failure to promptly address these issues could have serious consequences for the LDEA, potentially undermining its ability to carry out its mandate effectively. The Agency must remain focused on its primary objectives, and internal conflicts should not be allowed to compromise its mission.
The reported tensions between Director Abraham Kromah and Deputy Hassan Fadiga highlight the critical need for immediate government intervention. Ensuring the stability and unity of the LDEA is vital to its continued effectiveness in combating drug-related crimes. Senator Dillon’s call for urgent action reflects the broader public sentiment that the government must act swiftly to address this embarrassing infighting and restore confidence in the Agency’s leadership.
