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A new wave of scrutiny hits Liberia’s drug fight as the LDEA confirms that Clifford Payne, though not linked to drug trafficking or bribery, will face charges for allegedly trying to obstruct the prosecution of a suspect arrested with 12 grams of high-value kush. The agency says interference of any kind is a crime on its own and will not be overlooked.

Liberia’s drug crackdown takes a dramatic turn as a staffer linked to Vice President Koung is arrested for allegedly trying to bribe LDEA officers to free a suspect caught with 1,511 rocks of Kush. VP Koung distances himself, insisting anyone connected to him involved in drug activities will face the law.

A tragic incident in Todee District has left a community in shock after a man allegedly killed his wife during a dispute over a mobile phone. Residents are demanding justice, an autopsy, and stronger police presence as questions grow over the slow response of authorities.

Two pastors abducted in Kailemai Town have been found alive after a dramatic escape. They spent two days hiding in the bush before reaching Zorzor and reporting to police. Both men are now safely reunited with their families.

LACC is raising fresh concerns after courts rejected its requests to move two major corruption cases from Lofa and Gbarpolu.
The Commission says keeping the trials in counties where the accused hold influence could affect witnesses and jurors, but both motions were denied.

A High Court judge has sentenced Liberian hairdresser Zainab Donzo to 20 years in prison after she pleaded guilty to transporting 1.9kg of cocaine in four compressed parcels. Donzo, a mother of three, asked for mercy, but the court said the gravity of drug offences outweighed the mitigation. The cocaine has been ordered turned over to the NDLEA for destruction.

Liberia’s HIV/AIDS cases have climbed to 36,000, with women accounting for the largest share. Montserrado, Nimba, and Lofa remain major hotspots, as DuPort Road leads with the highest community cases. Health authorities are calling for stronger testing, targeted interventions, and sustained support as the country marks World AIDS Day.

Kpelle leaders petition lawmakers to reject President Boakai’s bill banning harmful cultural practices, arguing the move threatens the survival of the Sande Society and Liberia’s cultural heritage. Lawmakers now face the task of balancing tradition with human rights protections.

Christian leaders in Lofa are demanding the immediate release of two pastors reportedly seized and taken into a traditional sacred grove (devil bush) in Kailemai Town. Tensions are rising as mediation efforts have failed and a major solidarity gathering is now being planned in Zorzor City.

Koffa and several co-defendants have pleaded not guilty to charges linked to the alleged Capitol Building arson, dismissing the case as politically motivated. Prosecutors say they’re ready with forensic evidence and witness accounts as jury selection begins Tuesday.