In late February 2025, Monrovia, Liberia’s capital, witnessed a series of alarming clashes between the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) and the Liberia National Police (LNP), raising concerns about internal security and inter-agency relations.

February 23, 2025: Initial Altercation

The tensions began on Sunday, February 23, when an AFL soldier, riding a motorcycle in a restricted area along Tubman Boulevard, was stopped by LNP officers. Despite identifying himself as military personnel, the soldier was allegedly assaulted by three police officers and detained. This incident was captured on video and circulated widely on social media, sparking public outrage.

February 26, 2025: Retaliatory Clash

In apparent retaliation, on the evening of Wednesday, February 26, a group of AFL soldiers confronted LNP officers at the intersection of S.D. Cooper Road and Tubman Boulevard. The confrontation escalated into violence, resulting in severe injuries to Officer William K. David, known by the code name “Safety 4,” who suffered major head injuries and was subsequently hospitalized at ELWA Hospital.

Government and Military Responses

The AFL High Command condemned the unauthorized actions of its personnel. Major General Davidson F. Forleh, Chief of Staff of the AFL, emphasized that the attack was not sanctioned by military leadership and assured the public of active communication with national security authorities to control the situation.  The government also condemned the clashes, underscoring the need for discipline and adherence to protocols within the security forces.

Underlying Issues and Implications

These incidents highlight deeper structural issues within Liberia’s security sector, including poor inter-agency coordination, lack of clear jurisdictional boundaries, and potential ethnic and political influences. If unresolved, such conflicts could escalate, undermining public trust and national stability. Comprehensive reforms focusing on professionalism, clear operational protocols, and fostering inter-agency collaboration are essential to prevent future occurrences.

The recent clashes between the AFL and LNP serve as a critical reminder of the importance of cohesive and disciplined security forces in maintaining national peace and order.

[Bɔ̃̌ Monrovia, AFL ni LNP yɛ̃i ɓaɓ́á dyi wɛ̀ɖɛ̀. Ɓaɖ́aá-nyɔ̀ William K. David kɔ̃ dyiíǹ hwòɖǒ, ELWA hwɔɖɔ. AFL kãá-́kpè dyi ɖaíǹ “ɖɛ mu kpaù́n wɛɛ̃ cɛ-̃nyɔ̀,” kàiǹ wuɖu. Gèɖèpɔɔ̀́-nyɔ̀ gbǒ hwòɖǒ ni, dyi-́sɛɖ́ɛíǹ-nyɔ̀ dyi xwa.] Summery in Bassa