Fresh details have emerged about the arrest of Clifford Payne, who was detained after allegedly attempting to interfere with the prosecution of a suspect caught with a substantial quantity of illegal drugs. Though investigators say Payne has no criminal ties to the suspect or to drug trafficking, the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) maintains that his actions amount to a serious breach of the law.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information press briefing on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, LDEA Officer-In-Charge and Deputy Commissioner of Police, Fitzgerald T. M. Biago, outlined how the incident unfolded and why Payne’s conduct is being treated as a prosecutable offense.
Drug Arrest Triggered the Incident
According to Biago, LDEA agents arrested a suspect on Saturday in possession of 12 grams of “kush,” a potent and high-value strain of marijuana estimated at US$26,000. As officers began processing the suspect for prosecution, Payne reportedly appeared at LDEA headquarters, urging them to release the detainee. Officers refused.
Biago explained that Payne then attempted to disrupt the handover process, behavior the agency categorized as obstruction of justice.
Public Concern Over Profiling, LDEA Responds
News of Payne’s arrest sparked public debate, with some Liberians questioning why investigators profiled him if he had no prior connection to the suspect. The LDEA clarified that profiling is routine and meant only to determine whether the accused had any involvement in drug activities.
Biago stressed that Payne’s lack of criminal association does not excuse his alleged interference.
“Guilt for a crime is not transferable,” he said.
“But obstruction is a crime on its own. Even if a person is not linked to the drugs, attempting to influence or disrupt lawful procedures is illegal and cannot be ignored.”
Charges Expected for Obstruction
The LDEA OIC said Payne is expected to face charges for hindering law enforcement and obstructing prosecution, offenses he described as harmful to the credibility of the country’s justice system.
The suspect arrested with the kush remains in pre-trial detention and will be prosecuted according to Liberian law.
LDEA Reaffirms Zero Tolerance for Interference
Biago reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to enforcing drug laws without fear or favor, warning that attempts to influence investigations, regardless of who is involved, will be met with legal consequences.
He underscored that the LDEA is determined to ensure drug cases proceed “strictly in line with the law” as part of broader efforts to curb the spread of illicit substances in Liberia.
Source: FrontPage Africa
