MONROVIA — Liberian hip-hop artist Karwordou Cole, popularly known as Bucky Raw, has publicly denied any involvement in illegal drug activity following an early-morning operation by the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) at his Paynesville residence on Friday, December 12, 2025. The incident, which unfolded just hours before his highly anticipated concert, sparked widespread attention after a video of LDEA agents entering his home circulated on social media.
In a statement released minutes after sources within the LDEA confirmed his release, Bucky Raw described the allegations linking him to drug activity as false, misleading, and deliberately intended to undermine his reputation and disrupt his scheduled event. He said the circulating narratives were driven by individuals with personal agendas and dismissed claims that he was connected to the confiscated substances.
The artist acknowledged Liberia’s ongoing struggle with drugs and substance abuse, noting that he has consistently used his platform to support efforts aimed at combating narcotics and promoting positive change. He said that despite moving away from past chapters of his life, he continues to face public judgment based on outdated perceptions rather than his current conduct and contributions.
Bucky Raw directly addressed the public, stating that he is not involved in any illegal drug activity and urged his supporters and the broader public to rely on verified information rather than social media speculation. He also appealed to the media to report responsibly and avoid amplifying unverified claims that could cause lasting personal and professional harm.
Meanwhile, the LDEA confirmed that the operation was conducted as part of its nationwide anti-drug campaign dubbed “Clean Wave.” According to the agency, officers executed a court-approved search and seizure warrant at approximately 7:00 a.m. at Bucky Raw’s Duport Road residence in Paynesville. During the search, 31.6 grams of marijuana were reportedly confiscated, and several individuals, including the artist, were taken into custody for investigation.
The LDEA stated that all individuals arrested during the operation remain under investigation and will be forwarded to court in keeping with Liberia’s drug laws, which classify narcotics-related offenses as non-bailable. The agency emphasized that the operation was carried out within the scope of the law as part of broader efforts to curb the spread of illicit drugs across the country.
Despite the incident, Bucky Raw confirmed that his scheduled concert would proceed as planned, assuring supporters that he remains focused and undeterred. He thanked fans for their solidarity, describing their support as crucial during what he called a challenging and heavily scrutinized moment in his career.
