The New Dawn Liberia | Truly Independent

Authorities of the Liberia National Police (LNP) have reported “an incident-freed” holiday on November 29, following weeks of constant warnings to arrest “naked” and disorderly beach goers.

For the past decades, Liberia has been celebrating its 18th President William V.S Tubman’s birthday as a national holiday in line with an act of the 3rd session of the 42 Legislature of the Republic.

The Legislature made the declaration in regards to the late president’s “invaluable contributions” to uniting the nation during his administration from 1944 until his demise in 1971.

But police in Liberia observed that the “Tubman Holiday” (November 29) including other national holidays have always recorded major incidents, such as arrests for criminal offenses and disorderly conducts during the observance. Deputy Police Spokesman Lewis Norman said “It is the first time in public holidays in Liberia- especially the Tubman Birthday that no crime was committed.”

He however told this paper that in line with the curfew imposed on motorbikes from 10 Pm to 6 Am, at least 12 motorcycles were impounded across Monrovia on grounds that the operators tried to use the holiday as an excuse to ply the streets during the curfew hours. The new Police Spokesperson Sam Collins also said LNP regulations were adhered to by residents and beach goers.

“We see this as a new beginning and hope that this cooperation will spill over to the Christmas and New Year seasons,” said Collins. He further told the public that the “LNP is not here to go against them but to protect lives and properties.”

Collins assured that the LNP is committed to fighting crimes for the good of the peaceful Liberians, saying “authorities are well pleased for the remarkable conduct we enjoyed from the public during the holiday celebration.”

Notwithstanding, police say the curfew on motorbikes remains in tight, re-emphasizing earlier warnings to arrest operators caught in the streets of Monrovia after the time limit.

Police say the decision announced last month will help curtail armed robberies and other crimes in Monrovia during the festive seasons. Over the past few months, police have suggested that some motorcyclists have aided armed robbery missions especially during late hours of the night.