AFL, LNRC Partner To Build Professional Security Force

The Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) in collaboration with the Liberia National Red Cross Society – LNRC, on Friday, August 21, 2026, conducted a one-day security guide workshop in Harper City, Maryland County, aimed at strengthening professionalism and adherence to human rights among security personnel.

The training brought together participants from the Liberia National Police – LNP, Armed Forces of Liberia, Harper City Corporation – HCC, LNRC Maryland Chapter , media institutions, and community residents from across Harper District.

Facilitated jointly by AFL personnel and LNRC staff; the workshop centered on security conduct, behavior, and the laws governing the use of force.

Key topics covered included: International Human Rights Law, International Humanitarian Law / Law of Armed Conflict, Humanitarian principles, Personal policing and public engagement and Military objectives and rules of engagement.

One of the lead facilitators, Mr. Oniel Bestman,  took participants through fundamental rights associated with both domestic and international law.

He emphasized the right to life, prohibition against torture,  and prohibition against retroactive criminal laws.

He also addressed the role of security forces in domestic law enforcement, including detection and prevention of crime, maintenance and restoration of peace and public order, and assistance to communities during emergencies.

Mr. Bestman further provided guidance on detention, arrest, search and seizure,  the lawful use of force and firearms, and the special protection of vulnerable groups  including women, juveniles, refugees, internally displaced persons, and victims of crime.

”Security officers must understand that their authority comes with responsibility.

Protecting human dignity is as important as protecting lives and property,” he told participants.

During the workshop, SSG Henry P. Lavala of the AFL said the objective was to train security personnel on the law of armed conflict and other legal frameworks that govern the conduct of security forces during both peacetime and conflict.

“This training is designed to ensure that our men and women in uniform maintain professional standards at all times, and are prepared to respond appropriately if situations involving conflict arise,” SSG Lavala explained.

He noted that the AFL conducts similar trainings periodically in counties across Liberia each year as part of efforts to build a legitimate, disciplined, and accountable force.

Although Liberia is currently at peace, SSG Lavala stressed the importance of understanding international law because conflicts continue in other parts of the world and Liberia has international obligations to uphold.

“We are not at war, but it is important that our personnel know the laws that guide warfare so that if there is any emergency, they can respond in line with international standards,” he said.

He further clarified that the workshop was not intended to instill fear in civilians.

Instead, he said, it is meant to educate officers on security laws, promote discipline, and ensure accountability for misconduct whether during peacekeeping, civil disturbances, or wartime scenarios.

Officials from the Liberia National Red Cross Maryland Chapter said the partnership with the AFL reflects a shared commitment to humanitarian principles and civilian protection.

Red Cross facilitators stressed the importance of neutrality, impartiality, and respect for human dignity in all security operations.

Participants from the LNP and HCC welcomed the training, saying it provided clarity on how to balance law enforcement duties with respect for community rights.

The workshop ended with a call for continuous training, community dialogue, and stronger collaboration between security institutions and civil society to promote peace and order in Maryland County.