Armed Forces of Liberia Launches Operation Restore Hope IV in Southeastern Liberia

The Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) has officially commenced Operation Restore Hope IV, a strategic security initiative aimed at addressing growing threats and illegal activities in Liberia’s southeastern region. The operation involves coordinated land and riverine patrols focused on securing the border areas and ensuring the safety of Liberian citizens. In recent months, reports have highlighted an increase in the influx of foreigners and some local individuals in border towns and cities within Grand Gedeh, Sinoe, Maryland, and River Gee counties. These unauthorized inhabitants are believed to be engaged in various transnational crimes including smuggling, illicit mining, drug trafficking, and maritime offenses—activities that pose significant risks to Liberia’s sovereignty and security. The launch of Operation Restore Hope IV is a decisive response by the AFL to deny unauthorized persons access to Liberian soil and to strengthen collaboration with local civil authorities. The operation aims to safeguard all communities along the Liberian-Ivorian border and maintain peace, stability, and public safety across the southeastern region. “Operation Restore Hope IV demonstrates the AFL’s unwavering commitment to protecting Liberia’s borders and citizens from illegal activities and external threats,” said an AFL spokesperson. “We will not tolerate any criminal acts that undermine our nation’s security.” The operation includes the deployment of a dedicated AFL task force to Grand Gedeh, Sinoe, Maryland, and River Gee counties. This team will conduct thorough investigations and operations to locate and remove unauthorized foreigners and locals involved in illicit activities. In addition to ground operations, the AFL will conduct robust riverine patrols along critical waterways in the border regions to monitor and interdict illegal movements. Complementing these efforts, the Liberia Coast Guard has been deployed in Liberian waters to interdict, halt, and impede any suspicious vessels or persons who may threaten national security during the course of the operation. The AFL appeals to all citizens and residents in the southeastern region to cooperate fully with security forces and local authorities during this period. “We urge communities to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Together, we can protect Liberia’s borders and promote peace for all,” the spokesperson added. Operation Restore Hope IV reflects the AFL’s broader mandate to defend Liberia’s territorial integrity and contribute to national peace and security through proactive and coordinated security efforts.