HARPER, Maryland − The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency in Maryland has burned confiscated narcotic substances valued at over L$2.94 million (US$15,164).

The substances, including 11.34g of the popular substance kush, 0.85g of cocaine, 26.12g of heroin, and 10.5kg of marijuana, were confiscated from different locations. The consignment was burnt in Harper on Monday, July 1. Members of civil society groups, the media, and local officials witnessed the exercise to ensure transparency.

LDEA’s officer-in-charge of Maryland, Moses Birr, said the substances were confiscated during raids on different communities. Those raids came off tips from community members.

“I want to appreciate [the] citizens for their collaboration. You find these things in the hideout, so if someone does not give you a tipoff, you will not find them,” Birr said.

As a result of the citizens’ collaboration, Birr said two persons were arrested and found guilty, and each was sentenced to one year in jail.

He said the agency had previously confiscated and destroyed another large quantity of marijuana that was cultivated in Harper.

Birr outlined several challenges limiting LDEA’s operations in Maryland, including inadequate logistics.

Featured photo courtesy of Patrick N. Mansah