MONROVIA, Aug. 22 — The Liberian government has imposed a nationwide ban on Tramadol, a synthetic opioid, amid growing concerns over drug abuse in the West African country.
In a statement on Friday, the Ministry of Health said the ban also applies to Shisha in all public and private venues, including bars, clubs, and homes.
Violators of the bans face penalties including arrest, license revocation, and seizure of products. The ministry noted that widespread abuse of Tramadol and Shisha has fueled mental health issues, violence, and social instability, threatening families and communities nationwide.
Tramadol, “now the most abused drug in Liberia,” may only be used for medical purposes under prescription and professional supervision.
The Liberian government also urged pharmacy operators and wholesalers to comply fully with the ban to curb illegal distribution.
According to local media, Liberia has faced an escalating drug problem over the past decade. Citing a 2023 survey by the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency, The Daily Observer reported that more than 47,000 young people nationwide are at high risk of drug abuse, with Tramadol identified as “the most accessible and most abused opioid.” (Xinhua)
