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ADNews-Monrovia,Liberia: Residents of Zeewhorr Town in Lower Margibi County have raised serious health concerns following the recent burning of more than US$336 million worth of illegal drugs in the area, accusing authorities of failing to put adequate safety measures in place.
Liberian authorities recently destroyed a record 4.2 metric tonnes of cocaine, with an estimated street value of approximately US$336 million. The massive drug destruction followed Liberia’s largest-ever cocaine seizure in Duazon, near Monrovia, as well as a separate drug seizure made at the Roberts International Airport in June.
During an investigation conducted by Afric Daily Newspaper, residents expressed concern that the method used to burn the seized drugs have exposed surrounding communities to potential health risks.
The General Town Chief of the Zeewhorr Clan, Anthony G.B. Wilson, accused the Liberia Medical Health Regulatory Authority (LMHRA) of failing to ensure that proper safety standards were followed during the burning process.
According to Wilson, health authorities had earlier assured residents that appropriate safety measures would be implemented before the drugs were destroyed.
“LMHRA came and told us that they would put safety measures in place before making any attempt to burn any illegal or pharmaceutical drugs, Wilson said.
He emphasized that authorities also promised to construct an incinerator capable of controlling smoke and other emissions generated during the destruction process.
“They promised to construct an incinerator to properly control the smoke, but they have failed to do so. Now they come into the community, burn the drugs and leave us with several unusual health problems that are affecting dozens of us, including women and children,” Wilson narrated.
Residents are now calling for a proper assessment of the possible health and environmental impact of the drug-burning exercise, particularly on people living near the disposal site.
They are also urging relevant government agencies to provide clear information on the safety measures used during the destruction of the seized drugs and to address concerns raised by residents.
The residents said they are not opposed to the government’s fight against illicit drugs, but stressed that drug disposal activities should not expose innocent communities to additional health and environmental risks.
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