MONROVIA – The Customs Department of the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) has officially transferred custody of ten boxes of narcotic drugs to the Liberia Drugs Enforcement Agency (LDEA). The LDEA is the to the statutory authority on drug enforcement.
According to an LRA news release, the handover follows last week’s seizure of the illicit substances by the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) officers stationed at the Roberts International Airport (RIA).
The AFL officers seized and handed over to Customs authorities the consignment, allegedly being smuggled through an unauthorized gate.
A joint security inspection team initially suspected the content to be Moringa tea based on its packaging, but laboratory testing conducted by the LDEA conclusively revealed that all ten boxes contained narcotic drugs.
In line with standard operating procedures on border management coordination, Customs (LRA) on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, officially turned over the consignment of narcotics to the LDEA for further investigation.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Officer Edmond Reed, of the Customs Anti-Smuggling and Investigations Unit (ASIU), underscored the Customs dedication to its role in facilitating lawful trade, collecting revenue, and ensuring the protection of borders and society.
He expressed appreciation for the partnership and collaboration between Customs and other security agencies and expressed hope for further improvement of border management coordination.
Receiving the consignment on behalf of the LDEA, Trokon Jackson, Commander for the RIA Detail, extended his gratitude to Customs and the joint security for the partnership demonstrated in the interest of the country.
The joint security remains committed to collaborative efforts to uphold the rule of law, combat illicit activities, and protect the well-being of the nation and its citizens.
