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By: Emmanuel Tarpeh Quiah.
BARCLAYVILLE-Grand Kru County –At least 26 officers of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) in Grand Kru County have completed an intensive week-long training organized by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), aimed at boosting their capacity to combat drug trafficking and abuse.
The training, held in Barclayville, provided officers with practical knowledge in drug identification, intelligence gathering, interdiction of precursor chemicals, investigative interviewing, and risk profiling, especially at seaports. Each participant was awarded a certificate of participation at the end of the program.
Mr. Fred G. Souh, lead facilitator of the program, said the growing complexities of drug enforcement in Liberia require a collaborative effort from national authorities, local governments, and community stakeholders. He noted that the new skills will not only enhance the operational effectiveness of the LDEA but also improve the agency’s impact in tackling drug-related crimes across Grand Kru County.
Souh also appealed for greater logistical support from both the central government and county authorities, stressing that law enforcement officers cannot succeed in the fight against drugs without adequate resources.
At the closing ceremony, the participants expressed appreciation to UNODC and its partners for the training opportunity and pledged to apply the lessons learned in their daily duties. They also emphasized the importance of professionalism, ethical conduct, and diligence in ensuring a drug-free society.
The training comes as Liberia continues to grapple with the rise in illicit drug trafficking and consumption, with authorities and stakeholders calling for a united front in addressing the challenge
Alphonso Toweh
Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters
He holds first MA with honors in International Relations and a candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict Resolution from the University of Liberia.