Twenty-eight officers of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) have received professional certification from the AME Zion University Graduate School, and Professional Studies.
The officers have completed ‘intensive training’ designed to strengthen their skills in criminal investigation, and the justice system.
The certification ceremony, held on Friday, September 4, at the AME Zion University Graduate School in Monrovia, brought together the Agency, and university officials, family members, friends and well-wishers, who celebrated the officers’ achievement.
The training covered a range of specialized areas, including rules of evidence in evidence gathering, and handling, investigative procedures under the criminal procedure law, intelligence gathering, report writing, case-file management, courtroom presentation, the use of force in criminal investigations, and constitutional safeguards governing investigative practices.
Acting Vice President of the AME Zion University Graduate School, Counselor Arthur T. Johnson, said the initiative was to contribute to the criminal justice system by strengthening the professional capacity of some LDEA personnel.
Johnson described criminal investigation as a critical foundation for successful prosecution.
He stressed the need for investigators to understand how courts handle evidence, and ultimately evaluated.
“We believe that providing expertise in this particular area is in demand, because the foundation of our criminal justice system, and the foundation for any successful criminal prosecution, starts with the building block of criminal investigation.”
He noted that properly trained investigators are better positioned to collect evidence professionally, and understand the legal standards governing its use in court.
LDEA Deputy Director General for Administration-Designate, Prince B. Mulbah, assured how the Agency is committed to undertake series of rigorous internal reforms, including creating merit-based opportunities for young, and deserving officers.
Mulbah said, the certification demonstrates how professional learning must continue even after an officer joins the security sector.
He congratulated the graduates for their commitment, and urged them to apply the knowledge acquired during the training to improve the Agency’s operations, and strengthen the fight against illicit drugs.
“Today is not just about the certificates you will receive. Today is about your commitment, your professionalism, and service to our country.”
Mulbah encouraged the officers to return to their respective assignments, and use their newly acquired knowledge to build systems, mentor younger officers, and help the LDEA fulfill its mandate with integrity, and excellence.
Dr. Martin F. Richards, Sr., Vice President for Academic Affairs of AME Zion University Graduate School, challenged the graduates to combine their newly acquired knowledge with integrity, discipline, and practical service to the country.
Richards described the national drug situation as a serious crisis. He warned that drug abuse has moved beyond being solely a youth, or criminal justice issue, and has become a national security, public health and economic concern.
The certification is expected to further strengthen the professional capacity of LDEA personnel as the Agency continues efforts to improve investigations, evidence handling, case management, and enforcement of the drug laws.
