Drugs: Anti-Drug Network Uncovers Kush, Cocaine Hidden In Pumpkin At Weala Market

By: Journalist Adolphus Singbeh

‎ MONROVIA–The fight against illicit drugs recorded a major breakthrough in Weala Town, District #5, following the arrest of a man and his wife for alleged drug trafficking near the Weala General Market.

‎‎The operation was led by the Deputy Director for Operations of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), Patrick B. Kormazu, in collaboration with the Network for a Drugs-Free Society.

‎‎According to our source, the suspects were arrested after a search conducted at a residence adjacent to the market led to the discovery of 84 pieces of kush and three wraps of cocaine. The estimated street value of the drugs is yet to be determined, as investigations continue.

‎‎The suspects have been identified as Jerry Sherief, 46, a resident of German Camp Junction, who was arrested at the Everyday Market in Weala, and Massah Sherief, 48, a resident of the Coal Base Community in Weala Town.

‎‎Preliminary findings indicate that the suspects allegedly used a deceptive method to conceal the drugs by cutting open a pumpkin and hiding the narcotics inside, a tactic investigators say was intended to evade detection and distribute illegal substances within the community.

‎‎Both suspects are currently undergoing investigation at the LDEA headquarters in Kakata and are expected to be formally charged and forwarded to court upon completion of the investigation.

‎‎The community leaders and anti-drug advocates have praised the operation, describing it as a timely intervention to protect Weala Town from the increasing threat of illicit drugs. Authorities say additional details will be released as the investigation progresses.

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.