MONROVIA – June 3, 2024, a violent incident at the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) came to light through video evidence, showing Director Abraham Kromah and his deputies, Hassan Fadiga and Gbawou Kowou, engaging in a physical altercation. The fracas, captured on video and obtained by Smart News Liberia, disrupted normal operations at the agency, leading to the immediate suspension of all three officials by President George Weah, without pay.
The incident began during a scheduled meeting, where Director Kromah insisted that his deputies be disarmed before entering his office. This directive immediately sparked a fierce argument as Fadiga and Kowou vehemently resisted Kromah’s order. The tension escalated rapidly, with both sides exchanging invectives, which eventually led to a physical confrontation. The video evidence reveals the chaotic scene, with professionalism and discipline seemingly abandoned in the heat of the moment.
The altercation brought the agency’s activities to a complete standstill. The physical fight not only disrupted normal working operations but also highlighted deep-seated issues within the leadership of the LDEA. Employees and onlookers were reportedly shocked by the breakdown of order and the public display of aggression among the agency’s top officials.
Following the incident, President Boakai acted swiftly, suspending Kromah, Fadiga, and Kowou without pay, pending a thorough investigation. This decisive action aims to restore order within the LDEA and ensure that such unprofessional behavior does not recur. The President’s intervention underscores the seriousness with which the government views the integrity and discipline of its law enforcement agencies.
The video evidence has raised significant concerns about the internal stability and management practices within the DEA. As the agency tasked with combating drug trafficking and enforcement in Liberia, the LDEA’s effectiveness is crucial for national security and public safety. The incident has, therefore, brought to the forefront the urgent need for addressing internal conflicts and improving leadership within the agency.
Experts and public commentators have weighed in on the situation, emphasizing the importance of strong, cohesive leadership in law enforcement agencies. They argue that such incidents, if not properly addressed, could undermine public confidence in the LDEA and its ability to perform its duties effectively. There are calls for comprehensive reforms within the agency to prevent future occurrences and to uphold its mandate.
In the aftermath of the altercation, the government is expected to take additional measures to ensure the stability and integrity of the LDEA. This may include leadership training, conflict resolution programs, and stricter enforcement of professional conduct standards. The incident serves as a wake-up call for the DEA and other law enforcement bodies to maintain high standards of professionalism and accountability.
This confrontation at the DEA highlights a broader issue of governance and discipline within Liberia’s public institutions. As the investigation proceeds, there will likely be increased scrutiny on the management practices and internal dynamics of the DEA. The outcome of this investigation will be crucial in determining the future direction of the agency and restoring public trust in its operations.
