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Liberia: Minister Samukai Talks Tough
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The Analyst (Monrovia)
18 July 2008
Posted to the web 18 July 2008
Defense Minister Brownie J. Samukai recently spoke tough when he appeared on an extended version of Truth FM's breakfast show, or the TBS.
Among many things, he condemned the growing waves of armed robberies and other forms of criminalities across the city, indicating that the government is not taking the issue lying down.
Mr. Samukai who appeared on the show, hours after the government of Liberian issued an official statement on the security situation, warned against such "deadly act" perpetrated by unidentified individuals.
Speaking at the top of his voice, an indication that he is ready to assist the joint security in caring out the recently launched Operation "Disrupt and Dismantle," Minister Samukai said this is the time for the government to take action against hooligans in the society.
Our reporter, who monitored the interaction between the Minister and Truth FM reporters, said his posture suggests that the government is likely to succeed in curbing the unwarranted act of criminality.
At the same time, the Liberian Defense minister used the occasion to appeal to the National Legislature to pass the Armed Robbery Bill which was sent there for its concurrence by the Lower House.
However, apparently based on the appeal of Minister Samukai, the Senate yesterday moved to pass the bill. It will be sent to the president for signature, following which it would be printed into hand bill.
The bill seeks to make armed robbery a non-billable offence. According to him, when the bill is passed, it will help minimize crime and deter others from engaging into criminal acts.
Apart from that, Minister Samukai also said the military would support, in a special way, to save life and property. Responding to questions from some callers, especially the arrest and subsequent release of suspected armed robbers, he iterated "Once the LNP institutes an arrest and forward suspects to court, it has no jurisdiction over the court".
Observers say his expression vindicates the police from condemnation that it is responsible, to some extent, for the increase in armed robberies and other crimes because it is not using its powers.
Meanwhile, Minister Samukai called on armed robbers and Liberians having illegal guns to turn them over to the government. He said the government would not condone any illegal armed possession because it is against the law.
Minister Samukai, former Director of the Liberia National Police (LNP), during the Sawyer-led Interim administration called all Liberians to support the effort of the police in every way by reporting any armed robbery incidents in their communities.
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He said the public and the police need each other to have a secure environment where stability and peace will prevail.
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