By Grace Q. Bryant
The Commissioner General of the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS), Stephen Zargo, has revealed that over 2,000 applicants for the LIS training failed a mandatory drug test.
On July 18, 2024, the LIS announced its intention to recruit 500 officers to replace 318 retired personnel. With the application process opened from July 22 through August 2, 2024, the LIS received a flood of applications from various counties, including River Gee, Sinoe, Grand Gedeh, Lofa, Bong, and Nimba.
According to LIS’ authoritative sources, a total of 9,743 candidates were shortlisted for vetting, which included written exams, physical fitness tests, and a critical medical drug screening.
LIS’ data available this outlet show that out of the 9,743 shortlisted candidates, 8,100 passed the written test, and 6,300 passed the physical test.
However, only 1,989 applicants successfully passed the medical drug examination, which was conducted by the African Medical Union.
Speaking at a news conference on Thursday during the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing, Commissioner Zargo, revealed that the service has now selected its target of 500 candidates.
These individuals will undergo initial entry training at the Liberia Immigration Service Training Academy (LISTA) in Foya, Lofa County.
This exercise is scheduled to begin on Monday, October 14, 2024.
Commissioner Zargo highlighted those recent renovations at the LIS’ Academy represent a significant investment in the future of the service. With upgraded facilities and resources, the academy is better equipped to provide comprehensive training that meets the evolving needs of immigration services.
He also emphasized the importance of education and skill enhancement for officers, mentioning new scholarship opportunities and specialized training programs in critical areas such as information technology and defensive driving.
The medical doctor who oversaw the drug testing process, Humphrey B. Taylor, explained that the tests were conducted in two phases: one for the presence of illegal substances, and another for medical screening.
He noted that while many applicants tested positive for illegal substances, some may have tested positive due to prescription medications they were taking.
Taylor emphasized the importance of transparency during the testing process, noting that applicants who did not disclose their medications faced automatic disqualification if unexpected substances appeared in their samples.
He also mentioned that some individuals who contested their results claim they had not used any illegal drugs, though these complaints are still under review.
Despite these setbacks, Commissioner Zargo affirmed that the 500 selected candidates have met all the necessary requirements and are ready to begin their training.
However, Zargo also acknowledged ongoing challenges within the LIS.
He pointed to the absence of Management Information and Data Analysis Systems (MIDAS) at crucial border points, which hampers effective operations.
He also highlighted logistical constraints and the need to address salary disparities for service personnel.
Commissioner Zargo reaffirmed the LIS’s commitment to increasing operational efficiency and strengthening capacity building, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with local and international partners to address the complex landscape of immigration services and emerging challenges.
