The move is aimed at tackling growing concerns over criminal activities across the city, particularly in areas identified as high-risk zones.
Gbarnga, Bong County – The Bong County Police Detachment has stepped up the enforcement of a night-time curfew imposed on commercial and certain private motorcycle operations in Gbarnga.
By Selma Lomax [email protected]
The move is aimed at tackling growing concerns over criminal activities across the city, particularly in areas identified as high-risk zones.
The curfew, which restricts motorcycle movement between the hours of 11:30 PM and 5:00 AM, is now being enforced more aggressively through the deployment of officers at key road junctions.
Bong County Police Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Fasu Sheriff, says the police are committed to tightening control and ensuring full compliance with the curfew regulation.
“We have identified strategic locations including Far East, Old One Plus One, and Lofa Parking, where police officers will be stationed during curfew hours to ensure full compliance,” ACP Sheriff stated.
He emphasized that the measure is not intended to target any specific group unfairly, but to protect residents and deter potential criminal elements who often take advantage of the nighttime hours.
According to Sheriff, police officers stationed at the various checkpoints will carry out inspections of all commercial motorcyclists and other individuals found outside during the curfew period.
He added that these officers will be vigilant in determining whether individuals have legitimate reasons to be out and will take appropriate action when necessary.
The police commander also disclosed that members of community watch teams will be deployed alongside officers during the nighttime patrols. He explained that their presence will help to reinforce security efforts and promote collaboration between law enforcement and residents. “These joint efforts are meant to safeguard lives and property. We need everyone’s cooperation,” Sheriff noted.
He further identified “Kampala” Barrack, the oil depot, and the John Flomo Bakalu area as known hotspots where criminal activities are frequently reported. He said these areas will receive special attention from both the police and community watch groups during night operations.
“We are encouraging the public to work with us. Use the hotline numbers published in the media to alert us of any criminal activity,” ACP Sheriff appealed. He stressed the importance of community participation in crime prevention, saying that the police rely on timely information from residents to respond effectively to incidents.
In acknowledging the logistical challenges his detachment faces, Sheriff thanked Liberia National Police Inspector General Gregory O.W. Coleman for the recent allocation of fuel to the Bong County detachment. “We are grateful to the Inspector General for the allocation of 50 gallons of fuel per month. This is the first time since I assumed the role as County Commander that we’ve received this kind of support,” he said.
Despite the appreciation, Sheriff pointed out that the current fuel support remains far below the operational demands of the detachment. He noted that the police in Bong County still face major logistical constraints including fuel shortages, lack of lubricants, and other essential supplies that are necessary for sustained and effective patrols across the county.
“While the fuel support is a step in the right direction, it is not enough. We are covering a large area, and to be effective, we need more resources,” Sheriff added.
He also revealed that the curfew enforcement operation will continue in phases until January 2026. The decision to carry out the curfew in segments, he said, will allow the police to monitor trends, assess compliance, and adjust operations accordingly based on crime patterns and public behavior.
The police commander reiterated his call for public support and cooperation, stating that security is a collective responsibility. He warned that anyone found violating the curfew without proper justification will be subject to questioning or possible arrest, as the police strive to reduce crime and restore public confidence in law enforcement.
The curfew measure, while receiving some public support, has also sparked discussions around the balance between security enforcement and freedom of movement. However, law enforcement authorities maintain that the action is necessary and proportionate, given the current rise in reported thefts, armed robberies, and nighttime disturbances in several neighborhoods.
