The statement further emphasized that such actions violate the principles and ethical standards expected of EPS officers, who are sworn to uphold the law with professionalism and integrity.
Monrovia – Four Executive Protection Service (EPS) agents have been indefinitely suspended for soliciting gratuities from guests at the residence of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and the Executive Mansion.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, [email protected]
The suspension, announced in a release issued by EPS Director Sam Gaye, followed allegations of misconduct involving officers assigned to the President’s residence and the Executive Mansion.
“It has come to the attention of the EPS Administration that certain of its officers have developed the inappropriate habit of soliciting gratuities from individuals at the President’s residence, the Executive Mansion Grounds and during national security events,” the release stated.
The statement further emphasized that such actions violate the principles and ethical standards expected of EPS officers, who are sworn to uphold the law with professionalism and integrity.
The EPS warned that it would not tolerate misconduct within its ranks and pledged to enforce disciplinary measures, including dismissal, against any officer found engaging in unethical activities.
“These measures are necessary to maintain the trust and confidence of the public and uphold the high standards of service the EPS is committed to providing,” the statement read.
A Sector Struggling with Scandals
The suspension of the four officers adds to a string of controversies affecting Liberia’s security sector. Recently, several top officers of the Liberia National Police were disrobed and suspended for ethical breaches, with some officers alleging abandonment by the government.
Despite these setbacks, the EPS reassured the public of its commitment to maintaining high ethical standards.
“While the misconduct of a few tarnishes the reputation of the service, it is important to recognize the outstanding dedication and professionalism of the majority of EPS personnel who serve with honor and diligence,” the statement read.
The EPS also encouraged the public to report any further incidents of misconduct to ensure transparency and accountability.
Dismissed Officers Seek Justice
Meanwhile, some dismissed EPS agents are appealing to the U.S. Embassy to intervene in what they claim is the government’s refusal to pay their benefits nearly 11 months after their termination.
Earlier in President Boakai’s tenure, over 200 EPS officers were dismissed under the directive of Director Gaye. The dismissals sparked allegations that the officers were targeted for their perceived loyalty to former President George Manneh Weah.
Director Gaye defended the terminations at the time, stating that the decision was aimed at improving professionalism within the service. He cited concerns raised by the General Auditing Commission (GAC) over the qualifications of some officers during an audit.
“Those who were deemed unqualified to provide VIP protection will be removed. And those we have vetted and declared qualified will be retained and sent for training at the police academy. We want to be fair and transparent. This is not a witch hunt,” Gaye told FrontPageAfrica.
He emphasized that maintaining high standards within the EPS was critical to ensuring its credibility and effectiveness as the primary VIP protection agency.
The EPS has vowed to continue taking steps to enhance its professionalism while addressing internal challenges to uphold public trust.
