Lower House’s Committee on National Security has received Instruction to Investigate Reported Shortage of Law Enforcement Manpower

Monrovia, Liberia: The House of Representatives has mandated its Committee on National Security to engage the leadership of the Liberia National Police (LNP) and the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) on the recruitment and manpower development plans for both institutions. 

The directive follows a formal request by Montserrado County Electoral District Five Representative Priscilla Abram Cooper, highlighting growing public concerns over national security threats, particularly the rise in drug crises and the persistent shortage of law enforcement personnel across the country. 

Liberia, with an estimated population of 5.2 million, currently has 5,033 police officers, resulting in a police-to-citizen ratio of approximately 1 officer per 994 persons. Liberia’s statistic is way below the United Nations’ recommended ratio of 1 to 450.

Additionally, the LDEA has only 460 active officers, an insufficient number given the alarming spread of narcotics and substance abuse. 

Representative Cooper’s request calls for the Inspector General, Colonel Gregory Coleman, and the Commandant of the LNP Training Academy, alongside the Director and Deputy Director for Administration of the LDEA, to appear before Plenary.

The invitees are expected to provide detailed information regarding their present staffing levels, recruitment strategies, training plans, and logistical needs.

The forthcoming engagement will inform legislative efforts aimed at strengthening national security and supporting youth protection programs. 

The Committee is expected to report back within two weeks, offering clarity on measures to enhance security operations and improve law.