By Christian Appleton
MARYLAND COUNTY, LIBERIA – In a significant security operation on Monday, August 12, 2024, Joint Security forces in Maryland County’s Electoral District 2 apprehended several individuals and seized a substantial quantity of illegal narcotics in Pleebo City. The operation was led by District #2 Commander of the Liberia National Police, Jmax Roberts.
The crackdown occurred in an area known as “Green Forest,” a notorious hideout for drug activity in Pleebo City. The security forces, acting on intelligence and community tips, conducted a massive raid that resulted in the arrest of 11 individuals, including 7 boys and 4 girls, one of whom is a 14-year-old drug addict.
Commander Jmax Roberts explained that the raid was part of a routine security inspection, during which the team disguised themselves to surprise the suspects. “During our normal inspection or tour, we were able to capture them in a place they refer to as Green Forest, where they often go to consume narcotic substances. We disguised ourselves and marched on them unexpectedly,” Roberts stated.
Among the narcotics seized were 23 pieces of Kush and 11 pieces of cocaine along with other illegal substances. Commander Roberts expressed concern over the rising influx of drugs in Maryland County, particularly the involvement of youth in drug abuse. “The young people, some of whom are females, are really addicting themselves to this habit, driven by peer pressure and other reasons best known to them,” he said.
Roberts reiterated the commitment of the security forces to collaborate with community members and other concerned citizens to reduce drug abuse in the county. He also called on residents to continue sharing information that could lead to the apprehension of drug abusers and traffickers.
The seized items have been turned over to the Maryland County chapter of the Liberia Drugs Enforcement Agency in Harper for further processing, while the arrested individuals remain in custody at the Pleebo Police Depot, pending further investigation.
This operation highlights the ongoing efforts of local law enforcement to combat the spread of illegal drugs in Maryland County, as they continue to work towards creating a safer environment for all residents.
