Capitol Hill, Monrovia – Grand Gedeh County Senator Thomas Yaya Nimely has voiced worries about security harassment at police checkpoints. Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, President Pro Tempore of the Liberian Senate, directed the Committee on Defense and Security to investigate the allegations. Senator Nimely brought attention to needless barriers and alleged harassment of citizens by joint security officials on major high ways around the country. The Protemp’s ruling seeks to resolve long-standing problems and guarantee citizens’ freedom of movement.
The committee was instructed to investigate Senator Nimely’s claims as quickly as possible and report back to the plenary within a week. The Senate’s move is meant to allay public worries about various obstacles and purported bribery.
Grand Gedeh County Senator Thomas Yaya Nimely
There are many checkpoints in Liberia, which are mainly managed by the Liberia National Police (LNP) for security and traffic enforcement. However, because of their frequent stops, potential for bribery, and disruptions to business, checkpoints are a major source of concern for drivers and businesses. There have been calls to convert some checkpoints into toll booths or reduce their number in order to improve economic flow, particularly in light of previous problems during conflict and ongoing issues with corruption and traffic compliance.
Checkpoints are used by LNP to police traffic laws (such as high lights and right-hand drive vehicles), verify vehicle registration and insurance, and uphold overall safety, particularly on important highways and in Monrovia. Checkpoints, which developed from security measures to economic barriers, were extensively utilized by national armies and peacekeepers (ECOMOG) throughout previous conflicts. At checkpoints, especially at night, travelers frequently report requests for bribes (little things).
