By Precious D. Freeman
The Liberia National Police (LNP) has successfully concluded the “Re-Launch of the Highway Patrol” awareness campaign along the Monrovia to Buchanan Highway, aiming to improve road safety and enforcement.
The initiative began on September 24, 2024, focusing on four key counties: Margibi, Bong, Nimba, and Grand Bassa.
During the re-launch ceremony, Deputy Inspector General of Police for Operations, Atty. J. Nelson Freeman, emphasized the importance of the highway patrol in maintaining order on Liberia’s roads.
He noted that while the patrol was once a regular presence on major highways, it had been sidelined for various reasons in recent years.
“We are committed to restoring this crucial service,” Freeman stated, adding that the new team has been thoroughly vetted and trained for effective law enforcement.
Freeman urged drivers and commuters to respect road rules and adhere to vehicle and traffic laws, stressing that public safety is a shared responsibility.
“We cannot do this alone, we need the cooperation of all road users to make our highways safer,” he said.
The re-launch event attracted a diverse audience, including heads of various federations, student and civil society groups, religious leaders, and county authorities, all expressing support for the initiative.
Community members participated actively, raising awareness about the importance of traffic regulations and the role of the highway patrol in preventing accidents and ensuring safety.
The Highway Patrol’s activities will include regular monitoring and enforcement of traffic laws, checkpoints to inspect vehicles, and outreach programs aimed at educating the public on safe driving practices.
The patrol will focus on curbing reckless driving, overloading, and other dangerous behaviors that contribute to road accidents.
Freeman highlighted further that the importance of this initiative is not only for safety but also for fostering trust between the police and the community.
“This is about building a partnership with the people we serve. We want the community to feel secure and confident that their safety is our priority,” he emphasized.
As the campaign progresses, the LNP plans to expand its reach beyond the initial four counties, aiming for a nationwide implementation of the highway patrol.
This initiative aligns with broader national efforts to enhance security and public safety across Liberia.
Local authorities have expressed optimism about the re-launch, citing it as a positive step toward reducing road traffic accidents and fatalities.
“We welcome this initiative and are ready to collaborate with the police to ensure our roads are safe for everyone,” said a representative from one of the participating counties.
The re-launch of the highway patrol marks a significant step in Liberia’s commitment to improving road safety and fostering a culture of compliance with traffic laws, ultimately contributing to safer communities and a more organized transportation system.
