Liberian senators raise concerns over revenue loss and drug trafficking

Senator Momo Cyrus, Chair of the Senate Committee on Defense, Security and Veteran Affairs, has called for the review or cancellation of a contract with the Liberia Transport Traffic Management Company. Cyrus cited significant revenue discrepancies, noting that while the government previously generated nearly US$250 million from vehicle registration and related services, it now collects less than US$4 million under the current arrangement. He highlighted that the state is entitled to a 30 percent share of revenue, but the current system appears to have caused a sharp decline in state collections.

Separately, Senator Amara Konneh, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Accounts and Audit, warned of increased drug trafficking risks due to Liberia’s porous borders. Konneh cited reports that Dutch drug trafficker Jos Leijdekkers may be hiding in neighboring Sierra Leone, potentially exposing border counties like Gbarpolu to illicit activity. Konneh also noted that Liberia is transitioning from a transit point to a consumer market, with drug seizures increasing by approximately 300% according to a 2025 Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency report. He linked the rise in drug use to a 70% youth unemployment rate.