Boakai sweeps LDEA leadership again

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has dismissed the top leadership of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), bringing the tenure of Director Souh to an end in less than a year.

Monrovia, Liberia – August 29, 2025: The President cited administrative reasons and immediately appointed an interim management team to steer the institution as the fight against illicit drugs intensifies across the country.

Those relieved of their posts include Director General Anthony K. Souh, Deputy Director General for Administration Gwee K. Porkpah, and Deputy Director General for Operations Sebastian Farr.

In their place, the President has constituted an Interim Management Team led by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Fitzgerald T. M. Biago of the Liberia National Police, who will serve as Officer-in-Charge. Joining him are Mr. Ernest T. Tarpeh, Assistant Director for Special Services at the National Security Agency, as Deputy for Administration and Investigation, and Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Patrick B. Kormazu of the LNP as Deputy for Operations.

The interim team will report directly to the Minister of Justice, who is under instructions to provide regular updates to the President on the agency’s performance and operations.

In announcing the decision, President Boakai emphasized that the move was necessary to strengthen Liberia’s collective resolve in tackling drug trafficking and abuse, which he described as an existential threat to the country’s future, particularly its youth.

“This action is aimed at strengthening our collective resolve and actions in achieving a country free of illicit drugs and substances, a task that the Government is committed to sustaining so as to effect a reversal of the current unacceptable situation,” the President said.

He further urged the newly appointed interim leaders to redouble efforts in preventing the inflow of narcotics, dismantling drug networks, and combating distribution across Liberia, warning that substance abuse fuels crime, violence, and instability.

Meanwhile, President Boakai has mandated the Minister of Justice to conduct a comprehensive review of the LDEA’s structure, functions, and operations. A detailed report with recommendations is expected within 90 days.

The dismissal of the agency’s leadership comes at a time when Liberia is grappling with a sharp rise in drug trafficking and substance abuse, with local and international stakeholders calling for stronger institutional responses.

Analysts say the President’s decision could mark a turning point in the country’s anti-drug campaign. However, much will depend on the effectiveness and accountability of the newly appointed interim team. -Edited by Othello B. Garblah.