AFL Joins Maryland County Joint Security in New Collaborative Push

By Christian Appleton

Harper, Maryland County — In a major boost to regional security, the Maryland County Joint Security Enforcement Team held its first monthly coordination meeting on Friday, July 31, 2025. The gathering, held at the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS) office, officially welcomed newly deployed members of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) to the county’s security apparatus.

The high-level meeting brought together senior officials from multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Region 5 Liberia National Police (LNP), the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), LIS, and correctional services.

According to Abdul Jallahquay Sr., Chairman of the Maryland County Joint Security and County Commander of the LIS, the meeting was an important step toward boosting inter-agency coordination and strengthening local responses to security threats. “It was an acquaintance meeting to discuss key issues aimed at improving the operations of the joint security in Maryland County,” Jallahquay told GNN Newspaper.

The AFL deployment will focus on patrolling high-risk zones such as the Cavalla River, the Atlantic Ocean coastline, and strategic border areas near the Liberia–Côte d’Ivoire crossing. The soldiers will operate in rotating shifts and partner with the Border Patrol Marine Unit to maintain a strong security presence along the region’s borders and waterways.

Following the meeting, LDEA County Commander Moses Birr took to social media to encourage residents to be proactive in promoting community safety by reporting illegal or suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities.

Meanwhile, Region 5 LNP Chief of Operations, J. Max Roberts, applauded the renewed spirit of collaboration among agencies. “Strong collaboration among security agencies is the key to reducing crime and ensuring the safety of every resident in Maryland County,” Roberts said.

The joint security strategy aims to combat cross-border crimes, drug trafficking, illegal fishing, and other transnational threats. This inaugural monthly session signals a revitalized approach to countywide security, with stakeholders pledging continued inter-agency coordination in the months ahead.