By: D Abraham Cooper, Sr.| Grand Gedeh county correspondent
Zwedru City, Grand Kru County | May 4, 2026| Law enforcement authorities have struck a decisive blow against the illegal drug trade following a targeted sting operation at a key transit hub in Zwedru.
On Friday, May 1, 2026, at approximately 6:30 p.m., agents of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) arrested 35-year-old Rita Sumo at the Zwedru truck parking lot.
The suspect, a Liberian national originally from Nimba County, was intercepted with a significant quantity of illicit substances believed to be intended for distribution.
The operation uncovered a substantial cache of narcotics, highlighting a serious breach in the region’s drug supply chain:
High-Grade Marijuana (“Lawo”) valued at LRD 545,380 (approximately USD 2,948)
Controlled Substance (Tramadol): Five boxes with an estimated value of LRD 250,000 (approximately USD 1,351)
Total Estimated Street Value is nearly LRD 800,000 worth of illegal drugs removed from circulation.
Authorities describe the arrest as a major step in ongoing efforts to dismantle narcotics networks operating within Grand Gedeh County.
A spokesperson for the LDEA confirmed that the suspect is currently undergoing intensive investigation. “We remain committed to ensuring that individuals fueling substance abuse and illegal distribution face the full force of the law,” the statement emphasized.
Rita Sumo remains in custody as investigators finalize documentation.
Upon completion of the preliminary process, she will be formally charged and forwarded to court for prosecution.
