By By: Alphanso G. Kalama;
Monrovia, Liberia – Liberia National Police (LNP) Inspector General Gregory O.W. Coleman has shed light on the harsh realities commercial drivers endure daily, after personally witnessing acts of bribery and harassment by highway patrol officers along the Monrovia-Ganta Highway.
In a statement following the incident, Inspector General Coleman described what he saw as deeply concerning and reflective of systemic issues within the police force. “Some highway patrol officers were bothering drivers and taking bribes. This is a clear sign of some of the key issues we need to tackle to keep our standards high,” he said.
The officers involved in the incident have been referred to the Professional Standards Division for disciplinary action. Coleman reaffirmed the LNP’s commitment to upholding integrity, professionalism, and the rule of law, while promising reforms to restore public trust.
However, his revelations have sparked widespread reactions from the public, with citizens sharing their frustrations and insights into the plight of commercial drivers and systemic corruption in the country:
J. Regan Smith urged Coleman to further investigate areas like Dula Market, claiming rampant extortion from police officers. “Just sit in a commercial car and pass through Dula market, sir. You will sack plenty of officers, including my best friend, who pays two thousand every day,” he said.
Jerry Yasiah lamented that bribery has become normalized across society, asserting that most officers stationed on street corners participate in such corrupt practices.
Edwin Baysah Ballah described the issue as indicative of a “weak system,” noting that corruption in Liberia mirrors challenges faced across many African countries.
Samuel S. Quaqua highlighted the link between low police salaries and corruption. “Pay them a good salary, and they will not have to beg for pocket change. $150 per month promotes the wrong behavior,” he said, pointing out the stark wage disparity between police officers and government officials earning thousands of dollars monthly.
Earnest Dense applauded Coleman for witnessing the issue firsthand but warned that the problem runs deeper. “Serious looting has been going on the highway for so long. Some top commanders are involved. Those officers report daily to their commanders. Please investigate well,” he said.
The accounts from citizens paint a grim picture of the challenges commercial drivers face, including extortion, intimidation, and a culture of impunity. Many believe that unless systemic reforms are implemented, corruption will persist.
Next Steps
Inspector General Coleman’s decision to confront these issues is being praised as a positive first step. However, citizens are calling for deeper investigations and accountability, not only for frontline officers but also for those in command positions who may be complicit.
The LNP faces a daunting task of addressing both the public’s frustrations and the internal challenges within its ranks, as calls grow louder for systemic change and fair treatment of law enforcement officers.
