By Grace Q. Bryant
Deputy Minister for Press and Public Affairs at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT), Daniel O. Sando, has strongly denounced the rising incidents of violence against law enforcement officers.
He spoke in a press conference at the Ministry of Information regular press briefing where he addressed a recent brutal attack on a police officer carrying out government regulations.
The officer in question was reportedly assaulted near Johnson Street while enforcing a restriction that prohibits commercial motorcycles from operating in certain areas.
According to eyewitness accounts, the attackers struck the officer on the head with a heavy object, believed to be the top of a commode, leaving him severely injured. He was immediately rushed to the John F. Kennedy Medical Center, where doctors have confirmed that he is responding to treatment.
Sando dismissed allegations that the government is unfairly targeting motorcyclists or attempting to deprive them of their livelihoods.
He emphasized that the restriction is a public safety measure rather than an economic suppression tactic.
“The government is not insensitive to the plight of its people. We are committed to creating opportunities for all Liberians, including commercial motorcyclists. However, we will not tolerate lawlessness,” he stated.
He clarified that while motorcycles are permitted in designated areas, restrictions exist for safety reasons, and violators will face enforcement actions.
Sando criticized individuals and groups who, he said, are spreading false information and inciting violence against security personnel.
He warned civil society activists against misrepresenting facts and using activism as a cover for political motives.
“Law enforcement officers put their lives at risk daily to protect citizens. It is unacceptable for anyone to attack them simply for doing their jobs. Those responsible for this violence will be held accountable,” he asserted.
In response to the attack, the Liberia National Police (LNP) has launched an operation to restore order and has seized motorcycles linked to the violent incident. The government has assured the public that anyone found guilty of assaulting security officers will face the full weight of the law.
Sando called on all citizens, including commercial motorcyclists, to respect law enforcement officers and abide by regulations.
He also urged civil society organizations to engage constructively rather than incite disorder.
“Our country deserves stability. Let us work together to maintain law and order for the safety and well-being of all Liberians,”he concluded.