In a major crackdown on narcotics trafficking, the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) has arrested a suspected high-profile drug dealer in Paynesville, uncovering a massive stash of marijuana worth over $295,000 USD, a seizure that authorities believe could expose a wider international drug network.
Acting on a tip-off, undercover LDEA agents executed a meticulously planned “buy and bust” operation in the Ruth Perry Community, near the Police Academy, on April 19, 2025. The Deputy Commander of the Zimbabwe Detail led the sting, purchasing LD$1,000 worth of suspected narcotics before swiftly apprehending the suspect.
The target, identified as 35-year-old Dominic Morlue, a resident of Bassa Town Community, was taken into custody without incident. A subsequent search of his property, reportedly conducted with his consent, uncovered a staggering haul:
✔ 100 compressed plates of marijuana (locally known as “Lawo”)
✔ 13 uncompressed units
✔ 454 processed, compressed marijuana parcels
The total street value of the confiscated drugs is estimated at $295,000 USD (LRD 56,050,000), marking one of the largest single busts in recent months.
Preliminary investigations suggest that Morlue may not have been acting alone. The LDEA suspects his operation is tied to a broader, well-organized drug syndicate with possible connections beyond Liberia’s borders.
“This is not just a local issue, we are dealing with a sophisticated network that spans multiple countries,” an LDEA insider revealed under condition of anonymity. “We are working with international partners to trace the origins of these drugs and dismantle the entire chain.”
Morlue remains in custody at LDEA headquarters as investigators piece together the full scope of his alleged operations. Formal charges are expected to be filed in the coming days, with prosecutors likely pursuing drug trafficking and possession with intent to distribute, offenses that carry severe penalties under Liberian law.
Residents of Paynesville expressed mixed reactions to the arrest. While some praised the LDEA for its swift action, others voiced concerns over the pervasive drug trade in their neighborhoods.
“This is a wake-up call,” said Emmanuel Johnson, a local shopkeeper. “We need more operations like this to clean up our communities. Drugs are destroying our youth.”
Meanwhile, human rights advocates have called for due process, urging authorities to ensure a fair trial for Morlue while intensifying efforts to curb drug-related crimes.
The LDEA has issued a stern warning to drug cartels, vowing to ramp up operations across Liberia. “This arrest sends a clear message: Liberia will not be a haven for narcotics dealers,” declared LDEA spokesperson Mark Gbatu. “We will hunt down every individual involved in this illicit trade.”
As the investigation unfolds, questions remain about the extent of the network Morlue allegedly operated within. For now, the LDEA’s latest bust stands as a significant victory, but the fight against Liberia’s drug epidemic is far from over.
