Monrovia, Liberia – February – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has signed Executive Order #141, instituting mandatory firearm registration as part of efforts to strengthen national security and public safety.
According to an Executive Mansion release, the decision comes amid growing concerns over the proliferation of illicit firearms, including military-style weapons, which have fueled armed violence, robberies, and other criminal activities across the country. The government says unregulated small arms pose significant threats to Liberia’s peace, security, and economic stability.
Under Executive Order #141, all individuals in possession of military-style firearms and single-barrel guns must register with the Liberia National Commission on Arms (LiNCA) and the Liberia National Police (LNP) within 12 months of the order’s effective date.
Key Provisions of the Executive Order include mandatory firearm registration in line with national regulations, marking and documentation of all registered firearms in a national database for traceability, voluntary surrender of unauthorized firearms, including craft weapons and military-style arms, to LiNCA for possible registration, legal consequences for failure to comply, including administrative sanctions and criminal prosecution.
The Executive Order aligns with Liberia’s commitments to international and regional arms control agreements, such as the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty and the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons. The government has also enhanced the security of state-owned weapons through improved marking, inspection, and stockpile management.
The release further notes that the Ministry of Justice, in collaboration with LiNCA, will oversee enforcement efforts, working closely with local authorities to ensure full compliance. Additionally, the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, along with development partners, is expected to support the operational plan for effective implementation.
This Executive Order takes immediate effect, and the government urges all firearm holders to comply within the designated timeframe to contribute to a safer and more secure Liberia.
