Liberia’s Criminal Complicity: Bribery, Corruption Erode Trust

Monrovia, Liberia - A recent report by the Liberian government reveals a deep-seated issue with criminal complicity, including bribery and corruption, which has compromised the country’s law enforcement system and eroded public trust.

Limited Capacity to Respond to Serious Crimes

Despite improvements in some law enforcement agencies, the overall capacity to respond to serious crimes remains limited. The country has seen a decline in investigated cases and prosecutions related to human trafficking, exacerbating socio-economic implications of the pandemic.

Border Security Concerns

Liberia’s porous borders have made it vulnerable to organized crime, with only a fraction of entry points having a security presence. The lack of resources has hindered efforts to manage the borders, creating an open space for transnational criminals to engage in illegal activities. Reports indicate that some border control officers are involved in corrupt practices, such as soliciting bribes from travelers.

Economic and Financial Environment

Liberia struggles to combat money laundering and illicit financial activities. Despite efforts to strengthen anti-money laundering regulations, enforcement remains weak due to corruption, political interference, and limited resources. The country’s economy relies heavily on foreign assistance and remittances, making it vulnerable to economic instability.

The support for trafficking victims and witnesses in Liberia is hindered by:

Limited awareness of the issue
Inadequate resources
Insufficient training among authorities

Shelters are scarce and ill-equipped, and there is a lack of formal policy for offering alternatives or financial assistance to victims.

Lack of Proactive Approach

Liberia’s approach to crime prevention has been largely reactive, relying on external assistance for major criminal cases. The government’s own preventive actions have been limited, and the pandemic has further delayed their effective implementation of prevention programs.

Civil Society Under Threat

Liberian civil society plays a crucial role in advocating for human rights, security sector reform, governance, and accountability. However, some groups face significant challenges, including:

Attacks on their members
Arbitrary arrests
Intimidation

Journalists continue to be targeted, particularly when covering sensitive topics like female genital mutilation.

Urgent Need for Action

The report highlights the urgent need for the Liberian government to address these pressing issues and ensure transparency and accountability in its efforts to combat corruption and crime.