By: D Abraham Cooper, Sr. | Grand Gedeh Correspondent
Zwedru City, Grand Gedeh County | May 17, 2026| The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) in Grand Gedeh County has rearrested a woman accused of involvement in illegal drug trafficking after she reportedly escaped during an inspection operation earlier this month.
The suspect, identified as Martha Toe, is currently being held at the LDEA headquarters in Zwedru while investigations continue.
According to LDEA officers, the incident began on May 6, 2026, during a routine security inspection at the agency’s checkpoint in Grand Gedeh County.
Authorities said officers stopped a vehicle traveling from Monrovia to Grand Kru County and carried out a search.
During the inspection, agents reportedly discovered eight plates of compressed marijuana hidden inside the vehicle.
Investigators estimated the street value of the narcotics at about US$800, equivalent to more than L$152,000 Liberian dollars.
Officers said the drugs were linked to Martha Toe.
The LDEA explained that before officers completed processing procedures, the suspect allegedly asked permission to step into nearby bushes to answer “nature’s call.” Security officers later reported that she fled the area instead.
Following the escape, LDEA officers launched a search operation while also detaining the vehicle driver for questioning at the agency’s headquarters in Zwedru.
According to investigators, the driver denied ownership of the drugs and claimed he had only been hired to transport the goods.
He reportedly told officers that the marijuana belonged to the suspect.
The LDEA Grand Gedeh Detachment later worked together with officers in Grand Kru County to track the suspect.
After several days of investigation and searching, authorities rearrested Martha Toe on May 14, 2026.
The LDEA said the suspect remains under investigation while case files and evidence are being prepared for prosecution.
Community members say the operation highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to fight illegal drug activities and improve public safety across the region.
