LDEA Clears Clifford Payne

The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) has announced that Clifford Payne, who appeared at the agency’s New Kru Town office on Saturday, November 22, 2025, has been cleared of allegations linking him to drug trafficking or distribution.

Payne had gone to inquire about a relative who was initially arrested with 112 grams of Kush, valued at L$201,600.

He was found to have no direct association with the illegal substance beyond attempting to intervene on behalf of the alleged drug suspect.

According to the LDEA, Payne’s decision to appear at the office to appeal for the suspect raised concerns, prompting further investigation.

However, the agency confirmed that, following a thorough review, he was not tied to the trafficking, use, or sale of narcotics.

Instead, Payne will be charged with impeding justice and subsequently turned over to the Liberia National Police (LNP) for further action.

Addressing the media, Fitzgerald T. M. Biago, the Officer-in-Charge of the LDEA, urged the public to remain calm and avoid politicizing the situation.

He cautioned against attempts to drag the Office of the Vice President into the matter, stressing that crimes under Liberian law are not transferable and that individuals must answer for their own actions.

OIC Biago also used the opportunity to provide key updates on the LDEA’s ongoing operations, particularly the outcomes of the recent deployment and the procurement of 15 vehicles to strengthen the agency’s mobility and response capabilities.

He disclosed that, from September to October, the LDEA arrested 178 suspected drug traffickers and dealers, all of whom are currently under investigation or in pre-trial detention.

During the same period, the agency impounded six vehicles believed to have been used in drug-related activities.

Additionally, the LDEA seized two buildings located in Breweville and Dauszohn, which are suspected to have served as operational bases for narcotics distribution.

Biago emphasized that these actions form part of a renewed national crackdown on illicit drugs, signaling the agency’s commitment to restoring public confidence in the fight against substance abuse and drug trafficking across the country.

He noted that the agency’s intensified operations demonstrate the government’s determination to disrupt well-organized networks involved in the illegal drug trade.

“The LDEA remains relentless,” he stated, adding that the agency will continue to pursue all suspects regardless of status or affiliation.

The LDEA has, however, warned against harboring or aiding drug suspects, noting that such actions obstruct the work of security agencies and undermine national efforts to curb the proliferation of harmful substances.

As the investigation into recent arrests continues, the agency reassured the public that all suspects will be given due process in accordance with the laws of Liberia.