IPNEWS: Sources at the Liberia National Police (LNP) have hinted the authoritative Independent Probe Newspaper that plans are underway to lay off several officers from the Liberia National police for their continued unprofessional conduct.
IPNEWS has gathered that recent police surveillance cameras erected across Monrovia has uncovered widespread corruption and extortion by some officers of the LNP assigned at various check points and intersections across Monrovia and its environs.
Other sources indicates that some of officers to be delisted did not go through the proper recruitment processes set under the new police reform agenda, couple with overstayed time within the LNP.
Additionally, IPNEWS understands that at the moment, there are reports of an ongoing massive reshuffling at various deports and zones across the country.
“As I speak there is major reshuffling at various zones and deports across the country bv the Police IG to give well-deserving officers promotion based on their qualifications and performances.”
“Many of our colleagues did not pass through the requirements to be listed into the LNP. Some of them came here on political recommendation and with this reform of the Police by the IG I’m sure Liberians will now begin to see real policing as was done pre-war days.”
“This is no watch hunt. Most of the officers did not go through a transparent recruitment process aimed at ensuring that only qualified Liberians are selected in a transparent manner to the LNP. During the review process also, it was discovered that several officers have overstayed their time in the force and have reached the age of retirement, but are still working, and this is a serious issue that needs to be addressed urgently.” A source requesting not to be named told IPNEWS.
The decision to lay off officers comes amidst an ongoing thorough review of various government entities, of which the LNP is no exception, and a move that was also promised by President Joseph Boakai during the 2023 presidential election campaign.
According to the LNP spokesperson, the decision to lay off officers is necessary to ensure that the police force is comprised of qualified, well-trained, and disciplined officers who will effectively carryout their duties in a professional and responsible manner.
The LNP was established in 1956, and appealed in 2016 as a legal institution enacted by law to provide an effective, efficient, and professional police service that is community-based and adheres to the principle of democratic and responsible policing at all times.
The LNP was also established to serve, prevent, detect, and investigate crime, aimed at protecting life, property, and other human rights, especially of the vulnerable, coupled with maintaining public peace, as well as responding to community security needs.
Meanwhile, the LNP has assured the public that the layoffs will be carried out in a fair and transparent manner, with officers being given the opportunity to appeal the decision if they believe they have been unfairly targeted.
