Senator Momo Tarnuekollie Cyrus, Chair of the Liberian Senate Committee on Defense, Security, Intelligence, and Veteran Affairs, has expressed grave concerns regarding the escalating presence of illegal immigrants from Burkina Faso in Nimba and Grand Gedeh Counties. He asserts that these individuals are engaging in illicit activities that pose a significant threat to Liberia’s national security. These activities primarily revolve around unauthorized farming and illegal logging, including pit-sawing, within protected forest areas. Furthermore, disturbing reports of maiming linked to these migrants have surfaced, raising alarm bells about the potential for escalating violence and instability. Senator Cyrus emphasizes the urgency of addressing this situation, stating unequivocally that no foreign national should operate above Liberian law.
The Senator’s concerns extend beyond mere illegality to encompass the potential for a direct threat to national security. The unauthorized exploitation of natural resources, coupled with violent incidents, suggests a disregard for Liberian sovereignty and a potential for further destabilization. To ascertain the true extent of the threat, Senator Cyrus has initiated a comprehensive investigation involving the Ministry of Justice and Liberia’s Joint Security apparatus. This investigation aims to determine definitively whether the activities of the Burkinabè community constitute a national security risk requiring immediate intervention.
Pending the outcome of the investigation, Senator Cyrus has outlined a potential course of action. Should the findings confirm a substantial threat to national stability, he intends to propose a Senate mandate authorizing the Armed Forces of Liberia to take decisive action. This intervention, executed through the Executive branch, would aim to protect Liberia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity from any perceived external threat. This firm stance underscores the Senate’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the nation’s security interests against any perceived transgression, internal or external.
Beyond the immediate threat posed by illegal immigration, Senator Cyrus has also highlighted the broader issue of law enforcement capacity within Liberia. Recognizing the crucial role of a well-equipped police force in maintaining peace and security, he announced the impending acquisition of fifteen 4×4 pickup vehicles for the Liberia National Police. These vehicles, allocated one per county, represent a significant investment in enhancing the police’s ability to respond effectively to security challenges across the nation. This initiative aims to bolster police presence and improve response times, thereby contributing to a more secure environment for all Liberians.
Senator Cyrus’s actions and pronouncements demonstrate a multi-pronged approach to security. He is addressing both immediate concerns, such as the influx of illegal immigrants, and long-term strategic goals like strengthening the national police force. This comprehensive approach reflects a commitment to ensuring Liberia’s stability and sovereignty. By combining proactive investigations with tangible investments in law enforcement capacity, the Senator aims to establish a robust security framework capable of addressing present and future challenges.
The Senator’s strong stance on upholding Liberian law and protecting national sovereignty sends a clear message: illegal activities will not be tolerated, and any actions that threaten the nation’s peace and security will be met with a swift and decisive response. His commitment to collaborating with the Executive Branch and national security institutions further reinforces this message, demonstrating a unified front against potential threats. This collaborative approach underscores the seriousness with which the Liberian government is treating these security concerns, ensuring a cohesive and effective response to safeguard the nation’s interests. The acquisition of new vehicles for the police force further strengthens this resolve, providing the necessary resources to enforce the law and maintain order throughout the country.
