‘We Challenge Anyone Planned Protest’ …. Police Chief warns

With major concerns and threats in the corners to stage a protest relating to the restrictions of motorcycles and tricycles along the main road, Liberia National Police(LNP) Inspector General has challenged any planned protest.

Speaking on Wednesday, May 1, 2024 at the Headquarters of the LNP, IG Gregory Coleman said his administration acknowledges the contributions made by motorcyclists but behind every rider is a family person who has responsibility and pay for service in safety way of which they are pushing to maintain.

IG Coleman said recently they announced a public safety measures and restrictions for the people motorcyclists carry which will be enforced on May 15 after a dialogue with the National Federation of Motorcyclists and Tricycle Association and signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to avoid our major routes.  

He emphasized that those who are only guarding those riders in the name of protest “our doors are opened for ideas and if you believe the rights of others being infringed then you can point out recommendations to solve said matter the best way but if you choose protest then go ahead and try.”

“We challenge you, this lawlessness must come to an end. Protest cannot be the only way out. If your action endanger the public safety then we will enforce the law. Absolutely, nobody will threaten the state. We have a duty to protect the state and if we think there is measure to save the public those measure will be upheld,” he stated.  

The police chief pointed out that for the restrictions to begin on May 15, which is two weeks away, those individuals and the police can dialogue and push better points.

‘’And when their ideas are good, the police will incorporate it. But if you think you can protest, which is the only way, we guarantee you that the law and order will prevail in this country,” the police chief asserted.   

He maintained that this is a chance for everyone who has  decided to lead a protest in the name of standing with the motorcyclists, adding that to all those who calling on the voice of justice in Liberia, the LNP  heard and recognized  their voices.

The IG applauded individuals who are now contributing on calling for justice. He named Albert Peters, a former Internal Auditor of the Liberia Revenue Authority, Gifty Lamah, Research Analyst, Liberia Revenue Authority,  George B. Fanbutu , Revenue Auditor, Liberia Revenue Authority, the Director General of the Internal Audit Agency, Emmanuel B. Nyeswua, Princess Cooper and others who haven’t gotten a proper report from their death.

He  welcomed those new comers who are calling for justice and encourage them to continue for justice but they will not be intimidated by anyone.

At the same time, the LNP has appointed Madam Cecelia Clarke as spokesperson of the Liberian National Police, and Madam Delphine Myers as Head of Media.

Madam Clarke replaces  Moses Carter. She is the third female Police Spokesperson after Yvonne Stewart in 1997. Followed by Asatu Bah who served as the second female for Director for Press and Public Affairs.