The Deputy Inspector General for Operation of the Liberia National Police (LNP), Col. Nelson Freeman, is warning the public to stay on the side of the law during the State-of-the-National Address (SONA) and avoid confrontation with LNP officers.
Col. Freeman warned that, any attempt to disrupt the ceremony through violent confrontation or by demonstration will be resisted by the Liberia National Police (LNP).
He recalled that the police has the backing of the Constitution and other laws guiding the state to quell and dismantle all illegal activities that have the potential to violate citizens’ rights and put their lives at risk.
The Deputy Inspector General therefore urged individuals planning to engage in disturbances at the State-of-the-Nation Address to remain in their shells at least for the next 24 hours or face instant arrest.
Col. Freeman said there will be no mercy for people he described as disgruntled elements and political vampires with preconceived minds to reign terror at the ceremony, and dared them to stand in the way of the police in carrying out its responsibility under the law.
The Deputy Inspector General, himself a parent, warned the youth to stay away from siding with disgruntled politicians who will otherwise lure them into violence and put their future at risk.
He urged the youth to remain calm but anxious to learn from the lessons of the President’s speech and use it as guidance, instead of gearing up to disrupt the process.
The warning by the deputy police chief comes amidst report that some hooligans are plotting to cause commotion and unrest during the SONA in order to prevent President Joseph N. Boakai from delivering his speech.
The deputy police chief said while it is true he has no clue as to who is behind the alleged plot, police is making every effort to keep an eye on those who orchestrated the recent demonstration at the Capitol, which resulted into serious property damage.
He pointed out that, as part of security measures for the SONA, the entire Capitol Hill has been declared a no-go zone, beginning Monday morning until the end of the day, for all uninvited guests.
The Deputy Inspector General for Operation is therefore appealing to the public to strictly follow all regulations, protocols and restrictions laid down by the Liberia National Police (LNP) to make the SONA a peaceful assembly.