Monrovia, Liberia – July 23, 2025 – The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) is mourning the tragic loss of Officer Emmanuel Payne, who was brutally killed on the evening of July 22, 2025, while performing his duties in the Caldwell area of Monrovia.
Officer Payne, assigned to the New Kru Town Detail, was reportedly attacked and killed by a mob after attempting to apprehend a suspected drug trafficker in the notorious Benson Street corridor of Caldwell. The incident occurred around 6:00 PM as Officer Payne visited a colleague from the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS).
According to preliminary investigations, Officer Payne observed a man carrying a suspicious black plastic bag toward a known drug den. Acting on instinct and professional obligation, he confronted and detained the suspect. However, the situation rapidly escalated as the suspect—identified as Franklin B. Feawoe, alias “Black Bottle”, a well-known drug kingpin—allegedly called for backup from gang members and community associates in the area.
Despite firing two warning shots in an attempt to deter the hostile crowd, Officer Payne was overwhelmed by the mob. Witnesses say that although he identified himself and wore his LDEA uniform, some individuals falsely accused him of being a “motorbike rogue.” He was then chased, severely beaten, and left critically injured. Officer Payne was rushed to the John F. Kennedy Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead.
The LDEA has condemned the attack in the strongest terms, describing it as a “heinous and cowardly act” against a dedicated officer serving on the frontlines of Liberia’s war on drugs. The agency has vowed to leave no stone unturned in ensuring that justice is served.
In a coordinated response, the LDEA has launched a manhunt for Franklin B. Feawoe (“Black Bottle”), who remains at large. Security agencies have initiated aggressive raids across suspected ghettos in Caldwell. Several illegal drug hubs have already been dismantled, and multiple individuals have been arrested in connection with the killing.
The public is urged to assist by providing any information about the whereabouts of “Black Bottle”. However, citizens are cautioned not to approach or attempt to engage the suspect directly, as he is considered armed and dangerous.
Information can be reported via the LDEA Hotline: 0777-133-333.
Officer Emmanuel Payne is being remembered as a courageous and committed agent whose work significantly contributed to the agency’s ongoing battle against drug trafficking and abuse in Liberia. His colleagues, superiors, and the wider community have expressed grief over his death and pledged to honor his sacrifice by intensifying enforcement actions.
“The life and service of Officer Payne will never be forgotten,” the LDEA Public Relations Section stated. “He stood on the frontlines to protect our communities. His dedication, courage, and integrity will live on in the mission we carry forward.”
The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency extends its heartfelt condolences to Officer Payne’s family, friends, and fellow officers. As the country mourns the loss of one of its finest, the agency reiterates its resolve to dismantle drug networks and safeguard the future of Liberia’s youth.
