Liberian drugs officer apologises to MPs

A top Liberian drug enforcement officer has apologised for making allegations that an MP was caught transporting drugs.

The officer told a drug awareness forum about her encounter with an MP who, she said, was seen carrying marijuana, cocaine and heroin in his official vehicle.

She declined to name the MP at the time.

But the allegation was published widely in local dailies and on social media, prompting the 73-member parliament to summon the officer to disclose the name of the MP in question.

When she appeared before the house, the officer admitted making the allegation but refused to point out the MP and instead asked for forgiveness.

The hearing was adjourned as the officer was rushed to hospital after suddenly falling ill.

Substance abuse is a huge challenge in post-war Liberia, where the under-funded Drug Enforcement Agency struggles to tackle the drug trade.

This article originally appeared on BBC News

Photo: Front Page Africa