The Analyst (Monrovia)

Liberia: 'Corruption Not Part Of My Life' - Police Director Says

Since he assumed the office of Director of the Liberia National Police (LNP in July 2009, there is absolute transformation in the administrative structure of the system. In a very short time, he has made tremendous successes in his effort to transform the LNP, though with niggling challenges. Above all, he made it clear that no one should align with corruption because it was not part of his life.

How did he make it amidst all of the challenges associated with the position is the lingering concern.

But Marc Amblard, the new police boss whose confirmation took a nauseating drive has been outlining his achievements despite the huge challenges he inherited in an interview with reporters.

Amongst several issues commented on, he said one of his major successes is the issue of armed robbery which prior to his appointment was the order of the day in Monrovia and its environs, noting that mechanisms he put in place have considerably helped to reduce the crime.

“When we took over, we realized that special operations could not be sustained therefore, we avoided launching operations that could be perceived as another failure. We went back to the drawing board and increased the number of officers deployed on foot patrols especially in high crime areas,” Director Amblard noted.

He pointed out that increased visibility of police officers makes it difficult for criminal gangs and their collaborators to operate thus providing reassurance to the communities.

“This reassurance is helping to reduce fear of crime thereby increasing public trust and confidence in the LNP. At least, you are felling a positive impact of our work,” Amblard added.

Mr. Amblard observed that his administration is succeeding in the fight against arm robbery and other crimes because he remains focus to providing maximum security to citizens and residents adding “we will remain on 24-hour foot patrols because it provides visible deterrent to armed criminals.”

Touching on the conduct of police officers, the Police boss said his administration has strengthened the capacity of the Professional Standards Division which deals with issues of police misconduct.

He indicated that due to the robust nature the Professional Standards Division in handling cases of police misconduct and ethical breach, officers are being guided by their wrongdoing thus giving the police a human face.

“As a matter of fact, every week I visit my officers in the leeward counties to get first hand information on their plight. They are always glad whenever they see me and expressed their willingness to work for Liberia in the fight against crime,” Director Amblard explained.

When quizzed about allegations of corruption at the LNP, the Police Top Cop dismissed the allegation terming it as the work of his detractors.

“I am one administrator that hates to hear a person involved with corrupt deeds that is why when complaints of extortion by my officers reach my desk, I take it very seriously and usually ask the Professional Standards Division to prioritize complaints of such nature,” the Police chief frowned.

He stressed that corruption is not part of his life and will never be a part of his life noting that transparency and accountability is the hall mark of his administration.

He said funds allotted for police monthly operations are appropriately expended for the intended purpose terming the allegation as a smear campaign to distract his attention from dealing with crimes and instilling sound fiscal policy in the police department.

With just ten months in office, the Director Police has made strides in soliciting logistical support for the forensic laboratory at the LNP something which has made investigators to successfully process criminals and charge them to court thus making government to win major cases.

Additionally, through Director Amblard’s efforts the Government of Norway is funding the construction of a modern complex that would serve as headquarters of the Women and Children Protection Section as well as a fence construction project at the National Police Training Academy, among other ongoing projects negotiated by the LNP’s Boss.

At the same time, Mr. Amblard is gradually succeeding in breaking the barriers between the police and the communities through a community policing sensitization and awareness campaign.  This campaign is geared toward strengthening partnership between the police and communities.

Due to the methods used to spread this philosophy, community members are encouraged to expose criminals and their hideouts.

The campaign which is nationwide is expected to be launched in the 15 counties. Already, it has been launched in Montserrado and Bong Counties.

He called on international donors to continue their support to the Liberia National Police in the areas of logistics and technical assistance.

Tagged: Liberia, West Africa

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