In Margibi County, Liberia
By Abraham K. Kollie, kollieabraham23@gmail.com
KAKATA, Margibi County –As the fight against narcotic drugs intensify in Liberia, a convicted drugs trafficker has revealed that the US$388,000 illicit substances he was convicted of has international links, after a Margibi court sentenced him to 15 years in prison.
The 13th Judicial Circuit Court here on Friday, January 23, 2025, slapped the 15-year sentence on a 40-year-old convict, Abel Okeke for the trafficking of the large quantity of the illicit substances.
Mr. Okeke, was convicted on multiple charges, including unlawful importation, illicit trafficking and control of drugs or substances, criminal conspiracy, and criminal facilitation.
Case Background and Investigation
According to evidence presented in court, the conviction followed a detailed investigation by the Liberia Drugs Agency (LDA). The LDA reported that Okeke had contacted an agency officer, purportedly to receive a shipment of goods. This initial contact triggered the investigation.
Mr. keke later informed investigators that a group of Ethiopians had arrived in the country on February 1, 2025, carrying approximately 8.642 kilograms of heroin. The prosecution built its case on this admission and corroborating evidence, detailing a network of importation and distribution.
Prosecution’s Argument and Sentencing
The prosecution highlighted several factors leading to the charges, including the defendant’s conduct during the investigation. They noted a *prolonged lack of cooperation, specifically citing Okeke’s failure to respond to official calls and summons for over four months, which was presented as an attempt to obstruct justice.
After considering the gravity of the offenses—which involved a substantial quantity of high-value narcotics—and the negative impact of such trafficking on Liberian society, Judge Victoria Worlubah Duncan handed down the 15-year sentence.
Immediate Incarceration
Following the verdict, Abel Okeke was immediately remanded to begin his sentence. He spent his first night of incarceration at the Kakata Central Prison, where he will serve his term.
National Context
This sentencing is viewed as a strong message from the Liberian judiciary amid increasing national and regional efforts to combat drug trafficking. Authorities have pledged to continue pursuing and prosecuting individuals involved in the narcotics trade to safeguard public health and security.
This case continues under the gavel of the 13th Judicial Circuit Court. Further updates will be provided as the legal process unfolds.