Despite the launch of a special operation code named "Operation Safe Haven", armed robbers have intensified their onslaughts on peaceful citizens across Monrovia.

As victims cry for help and nurse their wounds, Police Director Col. Chris Massaquoi has admitted that the violent crime of arm robbery is on the increase in Monrovia and its surroundings.

Speaking Thursday when he addressed the Ministry of Information weekly press conference, the Police Chief said arm robbery situations during this period is higher than arm robbery incidents during the same period last year.

Although he did not give any reason for the increase but regretted the high wave of the crime and apologized to victims.

He refuted rumors that the police were doing nothing to combat arm robbery across Liberia.

In recent weeks, criminal gangs have been cracking down on citizens and residents with guns, knives and other deadly instruments amid the special police operation which is intended to restore hope and confidence in the citizenry.

Community dwellers, who are mostly victimized, have complained of an inadequate police foot patrol in their areas; but Director Massaquoi stressed that his men are making regular patrols on foot and mobile.

The Police Chief failed to provide crime statistics which would have given the exact percentage about the increase in arm robbery, but instead said "I firstly want to express our deepest sympathy to those who are affected by arm robbery attacks".

"Operation Safe Haven" was launched on October 3, 2012 as a means to combating violent crimes especially arm robbery and restoring confidence in the population ahead of the Christmas and New Year Seasons.