Duazon, Liberia (Running Africa) — Liberian authorities have seized 3,971 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value of $317 million, marking the largest drug bust in Liberia’s history and dealing a major blow to suspected international drug trafficking networks operating through West Africa.

The massive seizure was made during a security operation at a suspected drug storage facility in Duazon, approximately 20 kilometers east of Monrovia, following what officials described as a lengthy intelligence-led investigation.

Police Recover Nearly Four Tonnes of Cocaine

According to law enforcement authorities, officers recovered dozens of suitcases and packages believed to contain high-grade cocaine concealed inside the property.

The raid resulted in the arrest of several suspects, including two foreign nationals and multiple Liberian citizens. Authorities have not yet announced formal charges as investigations continue.

Officials said forensic examinations are underway to confirm the composition of the seized narcotics while investigators work to identify the criminal network behind the shipment.

Investigation Focuses on International Drug Trafficking Network

Authorities are continuing efforts to determine the origin of the cocaine and its intended destination.

Investigators believe the seizure forms part of a broader transnational drug trafficking operation, with law enforcement agencies pursuing additional leads to identify other individuals involved in the network.

The operation is expected to involve cooperation with regional and international partners as authorities seek to dismantle the wider trafficking syndicate.

Second Major Cocaine Seizure in Weeks

The latest operation comes just weeks after Liberian authorities intercepted another cocaine shipment at Roberts International Airport.

In that case, traffickers allegedly concealed narcotics inside cargo falsely declared as food seasoning and textiles, highlighting increasingly sophisticated smuggling methods used by organized criminal groups.

The back-to-back seizures have intensified concerns over Liberia’s vulnerability to international narcotics trafficking.

Government Vows Tough Action

Vice President Jeremiah Koung praised security agencies for carrying out the operation, describing the seizure as a significant victory in Liberia’s fight against organized crime.

He pledged that everyone connected to the trafficking operation would face the full force of the law as authorities continue their investigation.

West Africa Remains Key Cocaine Transit Route

The seizure reinforces growing international concerns over West Africa’s role as a major transit hub for cocaine trafficking between South America and Europe.

Weak border controls, expanding maritime routes and organized criminal networks have made several West African countries increasingly attractive to traffickers moving cocaine toward European markets.

Liberia’s record-breaking seizure is expected to strengthen regional efforts to combat transnational organized crime and disrupt illicit drug trafficking networks operating across the continent.