The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) has confirmed the arrest of popular artist Alonso Yeah, also known as Alonzo Abasi on Facebook, along with three others at the Bo Waterside Port of entry, Grand Cape Mount County, in connection with an attempted trafficking of 844 grams of Methcathinone a highly potent synthetic drug.

The arrest occurred on Tuesday evening at approximately 6:30 PM, during a routine vehicle inspection at the port. The suspects were found transporting the illicit substance concealed in the rear door of a blue Nissan Primera, with license plate number A120421.

According to the LDEA, the seized drugs are valued at USD 8,440.00, equivalent to 1,688,000 Liberian Dollars. Authorities say this is the first known attempt to introduce Methcathinone into the Liberian drug market.

Related News

The four arrested individuals are:

Eariel Xavises Aweti, 36, Sierra Leonean

Samuel R. Grey, 28, Sierra Leonean

Alonso Yeah (aka Alonso Abasi), 35, Liberian artist residing in Sierra Leone

Matthew Sherman, 25, Liberian, resident of VOA Community

What has shocked many is the involvement of Alonso Abasi, a well-known artist who has previously released music advocating for drug awareness and prevention. His arrest has raised concerns about the authenticity of public figures campaigning against drug abuse.

All four suspects have been handed over for further investigation and are expected to be prosecuted in court.

The LDEA commended the swift action of its Cape Mount team, which prevented the dangerous substance from entering local communities.

“This marks a major success in the fight against the trafficking of emerging synthetic drugs,” an LDEA official said.