Published: June 28, 2025
GBARNGA, Bong County — Two suspected drug dealers have been forwarded to the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court in Gbarnga following their arrest by the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) for allegedly selling narcotics to children and young adults in District #1.
The suspects, identified as Zarwu Kennedy, 32, and Princess Varnah, 30, were apprehended by officers of the Liberia National Police and the Bong County detachment of the LDEA after residents of a small town near St. John tipped off authorities.
According to local town leaders, the couple had been supplying illicit drugs to minors, fueling a wave of youth violence and threatening community safety.
During a search of the suspects’ residence, law enforcement officers reportedly seized quantities of marijuana, kush, and cigarettes. The operation also targeted a Nigerian national who allegedly fled the area upon learning of the authorities’ presence.
“When we entered the town, residents immediately pointed out the couple and a Nigerian national,” said Officer Siaffa Kollie, who led the operation. “They told us their children were being drawn into drug use and begged us to intervene.”
Deputy LDEA Commander for Bong County Lewis N. Geelar confirmed the arrests and noted that Kennedy and Varnah were found in possession of illegal substances.
“They were caught with drugs and will face the law,” Geelar said during a Thursday press briefing. “Their prosecution is necessary to deter others involved in the trade of harmful substances.”
While under investigation, the suspects reportedly admitted to selling marijuana and cigarettes but denied possessing Kush. They claimed the Kush was planted by law enforcement officers to strengthen the case against them.
“We don’t sell all those drugs,” the pair said. “The Kush was added by the police.”
However, Officer Kollie dismissed the allegation and expressed frustration over the justice system’s handling of drug cases. He criticized the court for routinely granting bail to suspected traffickers, which he said undermines the country’s anti-narcotics efforts.
“The courts are letting these people post bond and walk free,” Kollie said. “This seriously weakens our fight against drugs. Suspected dealers should not be released on bond.”
He called for a tougher stance from the judiciary, stressing that Liberia cannot make meaningful progress against drug-related crimes unless suspects are denied bail.
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