Security - OK FM https://okfm.com.lr Everything is OK with OK FM 99.5 Mon, 20 Oct 2025 08:34:01 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.5 https://okfm.com.lr/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/cropped-OKAY-FM-LOGO-2-32x32.jpg Security - OK FM https://okfm.com.lr 32 32 UN Unveils New Five-Year Development Framework to Strengthen Liberia’s Peacebuilding and Sustainable Growth https://okfm.com.lr/un-unveils-new-five-year-development-framework-to-strengthen-liberias-peacebuilding-and-sustainable-growth/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=un-unveils-new-five-year-development-framework-to-strengthen-liberias-peacebuilding-and-sustainable-growth Mon, 20 Oct 2025 08:33:57 +0000 https://okfm.com.lr/?p=7393 The United Nations in Liberia is set to launch a new five-yeardevelopment framework, charting the country’s next steps inpeacebuilding and sustainable growth. The disclosure was made during a Media Breakfast held in Monrovia tocommemorate the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations. UN Resident Coordinator, Madam Christine Umutoni, said the newframework,...

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The United Nations in Liberia is set to launch a new five-year
development framework, charting the country’s next steps in
peacebuilding and sustainable growth.

The disclosure was made during a Media Breakfast held in Monrovia to
commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations.

UN Resident Coordinator, Madam Christine Umutoni, said the new
framework, which runs from 2026 to 2030, highlights both Liberia’s
contributions to the world and the UN’s continued support to Liberia’s
development.

Madam Umutoni described Liberia’s journey with the United Nations as
one of mutual trust and partnership, noting that both have worked
together toward resolution, recovery, and reconciliation — from
peacekeeping operations to humanitarian assistance and beyond.

She also praised Liberia’s steady progress, noting that the economy
grew by 5.1% with a 5.8% projection in 2025, all of which are driven
by mining, agriculture, manufacturing, and services.

The Media Breakfast, held on October 15, set the stage for a series of
activities to be jointly organized by the Government of Liberia and
the United Nations throughout the month in observance of the UN’s 80th
Anniversary.

This year’s celebration is being held under the theme “One Liberia,
One UN, One Future: 80 Years of Partnership and Progress.”

Christne-Umutoni

Lawrence-Fahnbulleh

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National Anti-Human Trafficking Taskforce Commences Development of 3rd National Action Plan https://okfm.com.lr/national-anti-human-trafficking-taskforce-commences-development-of-3rd-national-action-plan/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=national-anti-human-trafficking-taskforce-commences-development-of-3rd-national-action-plan Thu, 18 Sep 2025 05:59:12 +0000 https://okfm.com.lr/?p=7327 Buchanan, September 15, 2025 – The Chairman of the National Anti-Human Trafficking Taskforce of Liberia and Minister of Labour, Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah Sr., has reaffirmed the Government of Liberia’s unwavering commitment to upholding human rights, protecting vulnerable populations, and ensuring that perpetrators of human trafficking are held accountable under the...

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Buchanan, September 15, 2025 – The Chairman of the National Anti-Human Trafficking Taskforce of Liberia and Minister of Labour, Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah Sr., has reaffirmed the Government of Liberia’s unwavering commitment to upholding human rights, protecting vulnerable populations, and ensuring that perpetrators of human trafficking are held accountable under the law.

He emphasized that the government remains equally committed to building systems that empower survivors of trafficking—restoring their dignity, offering hope, and creating opportunities for reintegration into society.

Minister Kruah’s statement was delivered on his behalf by the Deputy Minister for Planning and Manpower Development, Hon. Steve Kolubah, at the opening of a five-day National Stakeholders’ Working Session for the development of Liberia’s National Action Plan for Combating Trafficking in Persons (TIP). The session, convened by the Government of Liberia through the National Anti-Human Trafficking Taskforce, with support from the International Development Law Organization (IDLO), is being held in Buchanan City, Grand Bassa County, from September 15–19, 2025.

Highlighting the significance of the initiative, Minister Kruah noted that the formulation of Liberia’s Third National Action Plan to Combat Trafficking in Persons (2025–2029) represents a defining milestone in the country’s anti-trafficking efforts.

“Over the years, Liberia has made substantial progress in prevention, protection, prosecution, and partnership—progress made possible through the collective commitment of government institutions, civil society, international partners, and local communities,” he stressed.

However, the Minister cautioned that the threat of trafficking remains both real and evolving, requiring renewed dedication and stronger, more coordinated actions.

“The Third National Action Plan is not just a policy document—it is a roadmap that will guide Liberia’s response to trafficking over the next five years,” he stated. “Our interventions will be strategic, victim-centered, evidence-based, and well-coordinated to address both current and emerging challenges.”

Minister Kruah assured participants of the National Anti-Human Trafficking Taskforce’s commitment to ensuring that the plan reflects realities on the ground, strengthens national and international collaboration, and reinforces Liberia’s resolve to combat trafficking in all its forms.

He concluded with a call to action: “I therefore urge all stakeholders—government institutions, security agencies, development partners, civil society organizations, and community leaders—to contribute meaningfully to this process. Your expertise, perspectives, and recommendations are critical to ensuring that the National Action Plan we produce is both inclusive and actionable.”

Also speaking, the Inspector General of the Liberia National Police, Colonel Gregory Coleman, emphasized that national security agencies take the issue of trafficking in persons seriously. He stated that there are numerous issues that all stakeholders must work together to address.

He informed participants that trafficking in persons is a modern form of slavery: “It is a very clever attempt to change how it was done yesterday, and the actors are smart—they are changing their tactics on a daily basis.”

IG Coleman further noted that even investigators are being seriously challenged in understanding current trends. “The front lines are getting tailor-made, and it makes it even more difficult to identify and respond to trafficking activities,” he said.

He added that the development of the Third National Action Plan for Combating Trafficking in Persons in Liberia is of great significance to the government and the people of Liberia.

“It is an opportunity for actors to reflect on their roles and consider incorporating all necessary elements—not just for this effort, but also in connection to the ARREST Agenda and the National Security Strategy. All law enforcement bodies must align their strategic plans so that combating trafficking remains a primary focus as activities are rolled out over the next few years,” he stressed.

In a brief remark, the Senior Justice Advisor at the U.S. Embassy, Mr. Abubakr I. Zaid, reaffirmed the collective commitment to ending human trafficking, noting, “The development of the Action Plan marks a pivotal moment for everyone, and we need to ensure that it is successful.”

He added that it is not just a document—it is a roadmap that lays out a comprehensive framework, and all stakeholders must ensure that it meets its objectives.

For her part, the Country Manager of the International Development Law Organization (IDLO), Madam Chinyelumugo Okoh, highlighted the importance of the event and the five-day deliberation on the “4 Ps” of human trafficking: Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, and Partnership.

The session is being attended by members of the National Anti-Human Trafficking Taskforce of Liberia, international and local partners—including the U.S. Embassy, ECOWAS, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), IDLO—as well as civil society organizations and Labour Commissioners from the fifteen counties of Liberia.

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Executive Protection Service Officers Suspended Amid Misconduct Scandal at Liberia’s Presidential Residence https://okfm.com.lr/executive-protection-service-officers-suspended-amid-misconduct-scandal-at-liberias-presidential-residence/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=executive-protection-service-officers-suspended-amid-misconduct-scandal-at-liberias-presidential-residence Thu, 05 Dec 2024 13:19:10 +0000 https://okfm.com.lr/?p=6672 Monrovia, December 5, 2024— The Executive Protection Service (EPS), the elite unit tasked with safeguarding Liberia’s highest office, is facing scrutiny after suspending four officers for allegedly soliciting money from guests at the President’s residence. The officers, whose primary duty is to ensure the safety and security of the President,...

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Monrovia, December 5, 2024— The Executive Protection Service (EPS), the elite unit tasked with safeguarding Liberia’s highest office, is facing scrutiny after suspending four officers for allegedly soliciting money from guests at the President’s residence.

The officers, whose primary duty is to ensure the safety and security of the President, were found engaging in behavior that undermines public trust and jeopardizes national security.

In a statement released yesterday, the EPS condemned the actions, calling them a “gross violation” of ethical and professional standards. The misconduct reportedly occurred not only at the Executive Mansion but also during national security events, raising concerns about potential security lapses.

“This behavior is unacceptable and will not be tolerated within the EPS,” the statement emphasized. “Disciplinary measures, including dismissal, will be applied to any officer found engaging in similar conduct.”

However, the statement fell short of naming the officers involved.

A Pattern of Lapses?

The suspensions come on the heels of recent revelations that some EPS officers lacked the qualifications to serve in the service, further eroding public confidence. As the agency responsible for protecting the president and other VIPs, these incidents amplify fears that internal issues could compromise its ability to fulfill its mission.

EPS Director Sam Doe reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to professionalism and urged the public to report any further misconduct. “While the actions of a few tarnish our reputation, the majority of EPS personnel serve with honor and diligence. We are committed to maintaining the trust placed in us by the government and the people of Liberia,” he stated.

Calls for Accountability

Critics argue that such breaches not only harm the reputation of the EPS but also pose a direct threat to national security. Security experts have highlighted that any lapse in discipline or integrity within a presidential protection unit could expose the head of state to significant risks.

Public reaction has been swift, with many calling for more stringent vetting processes and enhanced oversight within the EPS. The organization has promised reforms to reinforce adherence to ethical standards and ensure transparency.

Meanwhile, the EPS is striving to rebuild public confidence and uphold its mandate to protect Liberia’s highest office with integrity and excellence.

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Liberia National Police Discovers Additional Firearms & Ammunitions https://okfm.com.lr/liberia-national-police-discovers-additional-firearms-ammunitions/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=liberia-national-police-discovers-additional-firearms-ammunitions Tue, 10 Jan 2023 13:40:28 +0000 https://okfm.com.lr/?p=4555 By: G. Watson Richard The Liberia national Police has discovered additional forty boxes of firearms containing twenty-five rounds in each box from a container recently seized by joint security at the Freeport of Monrovia. on Monday January 9, 2023, Police Spokesman Moses Carter told reporters that the latest discovery was...

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Liberia National Police Spokesman Moses Carter

By: G. Watson Richard

The Liberia national Police has discovered additional forty boxes of firearms containing twenty-five rounds in each box from a container recently seized by joint security at the Freeport of Monrovia.

on Monday January 9, 2023, Police Spokesman Moses Carter told reporters that the latest discovery was as a result of additional search carried out on Saturday, January 7, 2023, at the Freeport of Monrovia.

The boxes of firearms containing twenty-five rounds in each is currently in the police custody as investigation continues.

On the 4th of January 2023, the Liberia National Police announced that it was investigating the discovery of huge consignment of firearms and assorted ammunitions it confiscated at the nation’s larget port of entry in Monrovia, the capital.

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