Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman has disclosed that the Liberia National Police (LNP) require approximately US$12 million to recruit and train 1,500 additional officers, citing urgent manpower shortages ahead of the 2029 general and presidential elections.
Appearing before members of the House of Representatives, Coleman explained that the force is currently understaffed due to limited budgetary support and the retirement of officers who have reached mandatory service thresholds.
He emphasized that strengthening the police force through professional recruitment, training, and equipment is critical to ensuring security during the upcoming elections.
“Liberia needs a professional police force, and the only way to achieve that is through highly professional recruitment, empowerment, and equipping of officers,” Coleman told lawmakers.
Coleman’s appeal highlights persistent challenges facing the LNP, including chronic underfunding, inadequate manpower, and limited technological infrastructure.
With national elections less than four years away, the proposal raises pressing questions about whether government will prioritize security sector investment to guarantee credible and peaceful polls.
CCTV Proposal to Address Detention Suicides
In addition to the recruitment plan, Coleman proposed the installation of CCTV cameras inside detention cells to curb rising incidents of self-harm and suicides among inmates.
His recommendation came in response to concerns raised by Montserrado County District #3 Representative Sumo Mulbah, who pressed police leadership on measures to safeguard detainees.
Mulbah stressed that proper oversight and supervision are essential to protect lives in custody. Coleman agreed, noting that continuous monitoring through CCTV would significantly reduce risks and promote humane treatment of detainees.
The Inspector General further underscored the need for specialized training for officers handling high-profile criminal cases. He argued that such cases often involve complex legal and psychological dimensions, requiring advanced investigative techniques and sensitivity.
“Proper training is vital to ensure our officers can effectively handle high-profile cases without compromising justice or the rights of the accused,” Coleman said. “This will also help reduce errors and ensure justice is delivered fairly and efficiently.”
