Police warn Weah’s private guards

Liberia’s Police Inspector General and Chairman of the National Elections Security Task Force Col. Gregory O.W. Coleman is warning some members who are loyal to opposition Coalition of Democratic Change (CDC) presidential candidate Sen. George Weah to desist from “the over securitization of public domain,” saying it is counterproductive to the peace.

The police chief calls on non- state actors here to desist from the over securitization of public domain, alarming that some members who are loyal to Mr. Weah were seen deployed in militant posture few days ago at the Palm Spring Resort. Col. Coleman issued the statement at the headquarters of the Liberia National Police (LNP) while he was being honored as “Father of Modern Policing,” the Police Public Affairs office says.

A press release issued by the police on Sunday, 5 November says Col. Coleman says such deployment by Mr. Weah’s loyalists reportedly created fear and pandemonium to residence of that community.  The Police boss averred that it is the full responsibility of the state to provide security protection for everyone and not individuals who are not allowed to do so under the laws here.

According to him, security negotiation has been concluded which calls for the reactivation of elite Executive Protection Service (EPS) to provide VIP protection for the two presidential candidates in the presidential run-off.  Col. Coleman further stated that Mr. Weah has been quite cooperative with this venture to assign EPS officers to provide him security protection in his quest to be statesman.

He warns that the securitization of public spaces is absolutely not the function of non state actors, but a national security issue. He says it is illegal under the law for citizens to impose as national officers, adding that it has the propensity of posing threats to the peace especially during the current political situation in the country.

Meanwhile, Col. has re-echoed that he is strongly resolved as Chairman of the National Elections Security Task Force in ensuring that Liberia enjoys a solid and lasting peace. Also touching on political activities here, Col. Coleman warns that anyone member of a particular political party caught wearing T-Shirt belonging to another Political Party to provoke the anger of that Party, will be severely dealt with the laws.

However the Police boss has pleaded with citizens to remain resolute and peaceful, assuring them that the election security mechanisms and strategies are still intact and under control. The Police boss was honored for his dedicatory services to the society and humanity. He was honored as Father of Modern Policing.

The President of the 16th Graduating Class of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion University (AMEZU). Mr. James M.D. Mah said the police under the leadership of Col. Coleman has done extremely well for maintaining the peace during and after the elections here. He further stated that it is prudently gracious to gown a young Liberian and a true patriot who has committed his benevolence to the Liberian people amidst challenges in society.– Press release