Liberian Police Seize Car Loaded with Drugs from Sierra Leone

September 22, 2024

Liberian authorities have intercepted a vehicle from Sierra Leone at the border, seizing 400 compressed plates of marijuana. The vehicle, impounded at Bo-Waterside, was abandoned by its driver, who fled during a routine check. Police are now searching for the driver, who remains at large.

Although the car was registered in Liberia, concerns have been raised over the growing presence of narcotics in the capital. Many believe that a significant portion of these drugs, including marijuana and a dangerous variant of kush, are being smuggled from Sierra Leone.

Sierra Leone has also been struggling with its own drug crisis, particularly with a potent form of kush that is a mix of cannabis, fentanyl, tramadol, formaldehyde, and even ground human bones. Experts warn that this combination is far more dangerous than typical marijuana, leading to severe health consequences including hallucinations, cognitive impairment, and respiratory failure.

Fentanyl, in particular, is a highly potent opioid, more than 50 times stronger than morphine. Its effects include euphoria, confusion, and sleepiness, which are often observed in those addicted to this deadly mix. Long-term use can result in coma and death, with the growing prevalence of such substances raising alarm in both countries.

As drug-related issues worsen, authorities in Liberia and Sierra Leone are grappling with the challenges posed by the proliferation of these narcotics.