The Liberia National Commission on Small Arms (LNCSA) says it has issued licenses and possession permits to 236 civilians to carry firearms across the country for personal security purposes.
According to the Commission, the approvals followed the receipt and review of numerous applications from civilians seeking authorization to possess and carry firearms. Under the policy, only one firearm may be registered to an eligible individual, and the weapon may be carried anywhere in Liberia strictly for personal protection.
Speaking recently in Monrovia, Vice Chairman of the Arms Commission, Atty. Vahkpannah B.K. Wymon explained that firearm licenses are renewed annually, while possession permits are renewed every two years, in line with regulatory requirements.
On February 24, 2025, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai issued an Executive Order granting a one-year amnesty to civilians who are already in possession of firearms or who intend to acquire one, allowing them to obtain legal possession permits from the Arms Commission without penalty. The amnesty is set to expire in February 2026.
Keep up with the latest headlines on WhatsApp | LinkedIn
However, the Commission warned that anyone found carrying an unlicensed firearm after the expiration of the Executive Order in February 2026 will be prosecuted under Liberian law.
"Let this serve as a serious warning to would be illegal arms carriers," Wymon cautioned. "We will take decisive action against violators."
Speaking on the occasion, Wymon clarified that they do not sell guns, but explained that "Once a person obtains a possession permit from the Commission, they can proceed to purchase a firearm from a vendor verified and approved by the Commission."
He added that applicants must submit a formal letter of interest addressed to the Chairman of the Commission, after which they will receive an application form outlining the requirements and procedures to be completed.
He further added that fees for firearm possession permits and licenses vary, depending on the type of firearm requested, and that applicants receive full information after submitting their letter of interest.
Meanwhile, He says, only certain categories of Civilians are permitted to carry firearms, not ordinary civilians.
Those permitted include legislators, judges, senior government officials, heads of ministries and agencies, amongst others. Edited by Othello B. Garblah.
