By Stephen G. Fellajuah
MONROVIA, August 21, 2026 — Popular Liberian musician Karwoudou Cole, widely known as “Bucky Raw,” was taken into custody and transported to court Thursday in connection with an ongoing case involving allegations of marijuana possession.
The musician was seen handcuffed on the grounds of the Supreme Court of Liberia on August 20 before being taken away by authorities.
Speaking briefly to reporters, Bucky Raw said he was being taken back to court over the same case stemming from his December 2025 arrest, but claimed he did not know which court he was being taken to or whether he would be jailed.
“They brought me in the same taxicab. They handcuffed me and brought me in the taxicab. I am not here with anyone. I don’t know which court they are taking me. I don’t know whether I am going to jail today,” he said.
The case dates back to December 12, 2025, when officers of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) searched Bucky Raw’s Duport Road residence in Paynesville under what the agency described as a court-approved search-and-seizure warrant.
The LDEA said the operation, conducted under its “Clean Wave” anti-drug campaign, resulted in the seizure of 31.6 grams of marijuana and the arrest of Bucky Raw and several other individuals.
He and other defendants were subsequently taken before the Paynesville Magisterial Court to face allegations of illegal possession of narcotics.
The case attracted widespread public attention, with supporters gathering outside the court and demanding his release.
Bucky Raw has denied involvement in drug distribution. Reports from the earlier proceedings indicated that he maintained that any substance allegedly discovered at his residence was intended for personal use.
The case has also drawn attention because the musician has previously spoken publicly against drug abuse and participated in anti-drug advocacy activities.
Thursday’s appearance marks the latest development in the case as authorities continue proceedings against the popular Liberian musician.
