A violent clash erupted between personnel of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) and the Liberia National Police (LNP) in Paynesville on February 27, 2025, stemming from a previous incident where an AFL sergeant was allegedly manhandled by police officers. The clash, involving an exchange of gunfire, highlighted the simmering tensions and power struggles between the two security forces, and underscored a concerning disregard for the rule of law by those entrusted to uphold it. This incident created fear and confusion among residents who witnessed the very institutions meant to protect them engaging in violent conflict.
The catalyst for the clash was the arrest of Sergeant Loyarty S. Garven, an AFL officer in civilian attire, for violating a police “No-Go-Zone” for motorcyclists. Sergeant Garven, riding a commercial motorcycle, reportedly refused to identify himself and comply with the restriction, leading to his forceful apprehension by police officers. A video of the incident, circulating online, depicted the sergeant being manhandled and treated aggressively, which sparked outrage among his fellow soldiers. This initial incident, occurring on February 25th, set the stage for the escalating tensions that culminated in the violent confrontation two days later.
The subsequent clash occurred when AFL personnel, reacting to the video of their colleague’s treatment, encountered LNP officers enforcing the motorcycle ban. The AFL soldiers intervened, attempting to prevent the police from further enforcing the restriction. This intervention quickly escalated into a violent confrontation, with reports of gunfire and physical assaults. The scene descended into chaos as the two security forces clashed, leaving residents terrified and questioning the ability of these institutions to maintain order and security.
The incident resulted in injuries on both sides, with at least one LNP officer, William K. David, hospitalized. Other police officers reportedly fled the scene after being assaulted. While the exact number of injuries remains unclear, reports suggest the AFL overpowered the LNP officers during the clash. This incident underlines a deeper issue of inter-agency rivalry and a lack of respect for legal processes, potentially fueled by a sense of impunity among members of both forces.
The clash between the AFL and LNP is indicative of a broader problem within Liberia’s security apparatus. The disregard for established rules and procedures, coupled with a propensity for violent responses, creates an environment of instability and undermines public trust in law enforcement. The incident highlights the urgent need for improved inter-agency coordination, respect for legal processes, and accountability within the security forces to prevent future clashes and restore public confidence. Furthermore, the incident raises concerns about the potential for such clashes to escalate into larger-scale conflicts with devastating consequences for the country.
Moving forward, a thorough investigation into the incident is crucial to determine the exact sequence of events, identify those responsible for instigating and escalating the violence, and hold them accountable. Beyond assigning blame, the investigation should also focus on systemic issues contributing to the breakdown of order and recommend concrete measures to address them. This includes strengthening inter-agency cooperation, promoting respect for the rule of law within the security forces, and establishing clear protocols for handling disagreements and disputes. Only through comprehensive reform and a commitment to accountability can Liberia hope to prevent future incidents of this nature and build a more stable and secure future. Addressing the underlying issues of power struggles, impunity, and lack of respect for the rule of law is essential for fostering a professional and effective security sector capable of serving and protecting the Liberian people.
