Monrovia – The Liberia National Police (LNP) Police Support Unit (PSU), one of the country’s most specialized security arms, on Friday marked its 20th anniversary with a call for deeper reflection, compassion, and gender sensitivity in policing. Speaking at the colorful celebration held in Monrovia under the theme “Reflecting and Celebrating,” Deputy Inspector General of Police for Operations, Cllr. J. Nelson Freeman, saluted the courage and sacrifices of the men and women of the PSU while urging the institution to place gender sensitivity at the center of its service delivery.
“Gender sensitivity must be at the heart of our professionalism—recognizing and respecting the unique contributions of both male and female officers, and treating every citizen with fairness and dignity,” Cllr. Freeman stressed. “In every engagement, let us be mindful that respect for gender and human rights is not a weakness, but the foundation of trust and legitimacy in policing.” The PSU, established in the aftermath of Liberia’s civil conflict, has been at the frontline of law enforcement, responding to riots, violent crime, and maintaining public order during some of the country’s most difficult moments. Cllr. Freeman hailed the unit for standing strong through uncertainty, calling them “the pride of the Liberia National Police.”
He reflected on the sacrifices of fallen officers who, according to him, “made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.” He urged the PSU to keep their memories alive by upholding the values of courage, service, and honor. “They may be gone, but their legacy lives in this unit, in this country, and in each of us,” he said. The Deputy Inspector General also highlighted the importance of psychosocial support for officers, recognizing the physical and emotional toll their work takes. “The risks, the long hours, the dangers, and the trauma that come with being on the frontline are not easy. That is why we must continue to strengthen psychosocial support—to provide the tools and counseling that help officers heal, grow, and remain resilient. Strong minds make stronger officers, and stronger officers make a safer Liberia,” he added.
Families of PSU officers were also celebrated for their unyielding support. Freeman emphasized that “behind every strong officer is a family that stands as tall,” noting that the sacrifices of families are often overlooked but deeply significant to the stability and strength of the unit. As the PSU looks back on its two decades of service, the message from the LNP leadership was clear: the future of policing in Liberia must be rooted not only in strength and discipline but also in compassion, gender sensitivity, and respect for human rights. “PSU, you are our shield during crisis, our strength in times of uncertainty, and our hope for a safer future,” Freeman concluded.
“On behalf of the Inspector General and the leadership of the Liberia National Police, I salute you. Happy 20th Anniversary! Continue to serve with courage, compassion, and pride.” The ceremony brought together senior police officials, PSU rank and file, families of officers, and guests who gathered to honor the unit’s legacy and reaffirm its role in safeguarding Liberia’s peace and security.
Author: Zac T. Sherman
