By Rufus Divine Brooks Jr.
Monrovia — The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) has dismissed two officers, Solomon Gbondo and Faith Willie, following an internal investigation that confirmed allegations of professional misconduct, including the use of excessive force against a suspect in custody.
The decision, announced during a press conference in Monrovia, underscores the agency’s commitment to its ongoing reform agenda centered on professionalism, accountability, and adherence to due process.
Incident and Investigation
The incident occurred on January 6, 2026, when the two officers allegedly assaulted a female suspect during her detainment. Following public complaints, the LDEA launched an investigation involving written statements, interviews, and structured questioning of all parties involved.
DCP Fitzgerald Biago, the officer in charge, emphasized that the inquiry followed national legal frameworks and international best practices.
Based on the findings, the agency’s Professional Standards Committee recommended the dismissal of both officers.
“There is no room for unprofessional behavior within the institution, and no one is above the law,” DCP Biago said.
He reaffirmed the agency’s zero-tolerance policy for abuse of authority, particularly in cases involving individuals in custody, and stressed that all law enforcement actions must align with professional, ethical, and human rights standards.
Ongoing Reforms and Training Initiatives
The dismissals come amid broader reform efforts within the LDEA. Currently, over 110 officers are undergoing professional training, including specialized and refresher courses at the National Police Training Academy in Liberia and abroad.
These initiatives aim to strengthen operational capacity, improve conduct, and align agency practices with international law enforcement standards.
The LDEA also highlighted ongoing investments in institutional development and accountability mechanisms to restore public trust.
DCP Biago urged citizens to continue cooperating with law enforcement and reporting misconduct, while reaffirming the agency’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting individual rights, and holding officers accountable for violations of professional standards.
