Police interrogate man for alleged human trafficking
The Liberian National Police in Pleebo, Maryland County has detained a man for allegedly attempting to sell his 11-year-old son.
By: Patrick N. Mensah, Maryland County
PLEEBO, Liberia, March 25, 2025 – A 38-year-oldman, Joshua Odarbeh, has been arrested and detained at the Pleebo Police cell for allegedly attempting to sell his 11-year-old son, Prosperous Odarbeh.
Odarbeh was placed behind bar over the weekend after he allegedly arranged to sell his 11-year-old son to businessman and musician, Abraham Weah, commonly known as DJ Cassava Leaf.
According to reports, Odarbeh contacted Weah via text messages, informing him that he wanted to sell his child. Rather than ignoring the message, Weah responded strategically, stating that human trade was not a phone discussion and suggested they meet in person.
He further offered to cover Odarbeh’s transportation costs from Grand Kru to Maryland County.
Upon Odarbeh’s arrival at Cassava Leaf’s business center, Weah immediately contacted the Police, leading to the suspect’s swift arrest.
Speaking to reporters following his arrest, Odarbeh said his actions were driven by what he described as “Satanic attack.”
Asked whether he had have previous dealings with Weah, he admitted to knowing him since 2020 and purchasing phones from his shop in 2023.
But the suspect denied any past involvement in human trafficking, saying, “I only decided to get in touch with him to see if he is interested.”
Police have launched a full investigation into the matter. Suspect Odarbeh remains in Police custody in Pleebo, while ‘DJ Cassava Leaf’ has also been invited for questioning to clarify any prior interactions with the suspect.
This worrisome case raises concerns about deeper societal issues in Maryland County and Liberia as a whole.
While Odarbeh’s claim of being under “Satanic attack” may not hold legal weight, it highlights potential underlying causes, including economic desperation, mental health struggles, or possible involvement in a larger criminal network.
The police have invited the child’s mother’s for further explanation, as the suspect remains behind bar in the county. Editing by Jonathan Browne
