Published: July 24, 2024
MONROVIA — The Liberia National Commission on Arms, in collaboration with the Liberia National Police, has officially presented certificates to the United States Embassy, permitting the issuance of firearms to its diplomatic security personnel for the protection of diplomats on official duties in the country.
Speaking during the presentation ceremony, James Fromayan, Chairman of the Commission, disclosed that this is the first time his institution is issuing such certificates to a foreign mission. He expressed his satisfaction in witnessing the signing of these permits by the Liberia National Police and the Liberia National Commission on Arms, to be given to the United States Embassy.
Fromayan added that the U.S. Embassy has met all requirements, including the training of its diplomatic security personnel at the Liberia National Police Training Academy. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to seek permission from the Executive Mansion to address illegal arms possession. He stated that those in illegal possession of arms would be given three months to surrender them. Following this period, anyone found illegally possessing arms will be dealt with according to the law.
Colonel Gregory Coleman, Inspector General of the Liberia National Police, described the certification as a milestone in the country’s post-war history. He emphasized that this first commissioning of firearms authorization for a foreign mission indicates progress. Coleman expressed hope for continued collaboration with the Commission to resolve issues related to firearms in the country and to establish control measures.
Colonel Coleman warned of the potential dangers of illegal weapons in the hands of non-state actors, noting that various firearms permits have been issued by different agencies in recent years, indicating the presence of illegal weapons. He stressed the need for recommendations to the government to establish control measures, including marking and identification of firearms.
He questioned how unlicensed firearms had entered the country, suggesting they had come through illegal means, as all official weapons come through the U.S. Embassy or official purchase protocols. Coleman reaffirmed his commitment to the safety and security of the state and promised to work with the Commission. He assured that the Liberia National Police would assist in eliminating illegal weapons from the country.
Receiving the certificates on behalf of the United States Embassy, Special Agent Tyler Daffy of the Regional Security Office thanked the Liberia National Commission on Arms and the Liberia National Police for their cooperation. During the ceremony, three diplomatic security personnel trained at the Liberia National Police Training Academy were certificated to be legal arm carriers for the United States Embassy.
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