Monrovia, Liberia – In order to better equip the Liberia National Police to combat crime in the nation, President Joseph Nyumah Boakai has promised to support the force’s capacity building efforts.
During a brief speech at the formal fingerprint machine handover ceremony held at the Liberia National Police headquarters, President Boakai announced that his administration will assist the LNP in enhancing their ability to fight crime.
The Liberian leader claimed that the National Police of Liberia plays a vital role in preserving stability in the nation. He characterized the LNP’s acquisition of the fingerprint equipment as a significant advancement in the police’s war on crime.
The Liberia leader praised the people and government of the People’s Republic of China for their unwavering support of Liberia’s development.
The Gregory Coleman-led administration handled the renovations, while the Chinese government donated and set up the equipment.
Yin Chengwu, China’s ambassador to Liberia, underlined the Chinese government’s ongoing support for Liberia’s development during the dedication.
The bilateral ties between China and Liberia have progressed significantly, according to Ambassador Chengwu, who also emphasized that the Chinese government remains dedicated to the partnership.
He noted that it will be an accelerator of capacity-building of Liberia’s law enforcement. The Chinese Ambassador added that the equipment of the lab are advanced, noting that the lab is the first of its kind in Liberia.
A week ago, the technicians from China installed the equipment and trained the Liberian operation officers. The Chinese side will continue to provide technical support to ensure the normal operation of the lab.
“I believe that the LNP will be able to provide the Liberian people with better public security services.”
Ambassador Chengvvu added that it is important to create a safe environment to practice “Rule of law”. He said, the lab will enable the LNP to make better analysis in the criminal investigation, and give the LNP more methods to combat crime.
“I am sure that the lab will help the Liberian government to promote its rule of law agenda.”
The Chinese envoy maintained that the new Fingerprint Examination Laboratory shows the acceleration of China-Liberia relations, according to the agreement between the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Government of the Republic of Liberia.
The Chinese Government consented to undertake the Project of Fingerprint Examination Laboratory is one of many donation to be made to Liberia since President Boakai took office.
China-Liberia relations have been always on the rise. This lab is the latest testament to it. The Chinese ambassador added that he is convinced that the friendship and cooperation between China and Liberia will be further strengthened.
Gregory Coleman, the Police Inspector General, expressed excitement at the Crime Lab and Forensic Equipment dedication at the Liberia National Police Headquarters.
Coleman stated that although Liberia had previously received similar equipment from China and other partners, this time is unique in that the LNP has not had the chance to acquire such equipment on its own.
He claimed that although the LNP’s manual print collection process had been challenging, the fingerprint lab test would now be 98% accurate thanks to the present setup and apparatus.
He continued that despite their commitment, the officers in charge of the serious criminal services section will continue to work manually while they receive training to enable them to run the lab efficiently.
