The Liberian government through the Liberia National Police (LNP) on Monday, August 27, 2012 turned over seven Ivorian security personnel to Ivory Coast Ambassador accredited here, Ezoua Timothee, for onward turn over to the Ivorian Government. The seven security personnel include: six soldiers and one police officer.

The seven security personnel had crossed the border into Liberia during the August 13, 2012 attack on the Pehkan Military Barracks in Ivory Coast by forces loyal to ex-President Laurent Gbagbo. Addressing a press conference yesterday at the LNP headquarters in Monrovia, Police Chief Chris Massaquoi explained that the seven Ivorian security personnel were forced to cross on Liberian soil due to the fighting.

He stated that the Ivorian Security personnel were rescued by the Liberian Joint Security forces while executing their assigned task at the Liberian-Ivorian border. But he was quick to point out that they (Ivorian Security personnel) committed no crime against the country and therefore, bear no criminal charges.

For part, Ambassador Timothee lauded the Liberian government for rescuing their men from the hands of Gbagbo loyalists.

According to him, such cooperation between the two neighboring countries will enhance peace and stability in the sub region. The Ivorian envoy assured that his government will show similar kindness to any Liberian security personnel that may be entrapped in similar situation.