VP Staffer Arrested for Allegedly Interfering in Drug Case

St Paul Bridge, Liberia: A staff member working in the Office of Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung was arrested on Monday, November 24, 2025, after a drug-related incident in the St. Paul Bridge community outside Monrovia.

The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) confirmed the arrest of Clifford Payne, who is now under investigation for allegedly trying to interfere with the arrest and detention of a suspected drug dealer.

According to the LDEA, Payne was allegedly seen at the scene pleading with officers to release a suspect he claimed was his close friend. Community members who witnessed the situation said Payne allegedly tried to use his position to protect the drug suspect. This angered residents, who accused him of using the Vice President’s name to block justice.

Eyewitnesses reported that Payne appeared to be “negotiating” with LDEA officers to free the suspect, a move residents interpreted as an alleged abuse of power. As tensions increased, more people gathered and questioned why someone tied to a high public office would involve himself in such a matter.

The incident has added to public concerns about the influence of powerful networks in Liberia’s ongoing drug crisis. Some Liberians compared the situation to the controversial resignation of former LDEA officer Forkpa Gwee, who previously alleged that senior officials were protecting drug traffickers and undermining anti-drug efforts. Payne’s arrest, they say, deepens suspicions about corruption within both security and political circles.

Political analysts warn that the situation could damage the image of President Joseph Boakai’s administration, which has repeatedly promised a tough stance against corruption and drug crimes. Opposition figures are already pointing to the incident as evidence of inconsistencies within the government’s commitments.

In response, Vice President Koung released a strong statement distancing himself from Payne’s alleged actions.

“My attention has been drawn to a video involving one of my staff and LDEA officers,” Koung said. “Let me be clear: anyone connected to me whether family member, employee, or friend who engages in drug-related activities will face the full weight of the law.”

Koung emphasized that no relationship will shield anyone from accountability. “Whether it’s my wife, my children, or anyone linked to my office, the law will take its course,” he said, aiming to calm public concerns about interference.

Despite his statement, many citizens and civil society groups say the issue shows the deeper challenges Liberia faces in the fight against drugs. Activists are calling for an independent and thorough investigation into drug networks that may be operating within public institutions.

The LDEA says Payne remains in custody and will be processed according to Liberia’s drug laws. Officials also hinted that more arrests could follow if the investigation uncovers wider connections.

Residents of St. Paul Bridge say they expect transparency and justice. Many expressed frustration that drugs continue to destroy communities while individuals with political ties allegedly act with impunity.

As the investigation continues, Liberians are closely watching both the LDEA and the Office of the Vice President, hoping this case becomes a turning point in the fight against drug trafficking and political interference.