By By: Staff Writer
Monrovia, Liberia – The Monrovia City Court has issued an arrest warrant for Oretha M. Sumo, a kitchen staff member at the Monrovia Central Prison, on allegations of possessing and selling controlled drugs within the correctional facility.
According to court documents, the arrest order follows a formal complaint from the Ministry of Justice, based on a report filed by prison authorities. The report indicates that on October 31, 2025, correctional officers conducted a search on Sumo during which they allegedly discovered 15 wraps of a substance believed to be “Kush,” a potent synthetic drug that has gained notoriety for its severe psychological effects.
Investigators say the suspected drugs, valued at about US$1,000, were concealed inside a condom and dropped by the accused during the inspection. The writ describes the alleged offense as “criminal, illegal, and unconstitutional,” warning that such activities endanger public peace and safety.
The case sheds light on growing concerns about drug infiltration within Liberia’s correctional system, an issue that mirrors the broader national struggle against substance abuse and trafficking. In recent months, law enforcement agencies and public health experts have sounded alarms over the rising circulation of synthetic drugs like Kush, which they link to an increase in violent crime and mental health crises among young people.
As of press time, neither Sumo nor her legal representatives have commented publicly on the allegations. The investigation remains ongoing.
