Liberia and Guinea Enhance Border Security Amid Rebel Recruitment Fears
Liberia and Guinea are reinforcing their shared border due to concerns of dissident recruitment by ex-rebels. AFL troops have been deployed to Voinjama in preparation for joint patrols. This move follows the extradition of Ibrahima Khalil Cherif, linked to LURD recruitment activities.
Monrovia has commenced efforts to strengthen the border between Liberia and Guinea in response to concerns regarding the recruitment of former rebels from the Liberians United for Reconciliation and Development (LURD) within Liberian territory. On the morning of Monday, Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) troops were deployed to Voinjama, Lofa County, as both nations work collaboratively to reinforce their shared border. This initiative follows the recent extradition of Ibrahima Khalil Cherif, a Guinean national implicated in rebel recruitment activities, to Guinea by the Liberian government. In light of this security threat, sources from the Defense Minister elaborated on the AFL’s objectives, indicating that troops were sent to Voinjama to prepare for joint patrols with Guinean forces. These enhancements are aimed at improving military presence not only in Voinjama but also in strategic locations such as Foya, Zorzor, and Quardo Gboni. The official stated, “We don’t want anyone to use our borders for anything funny. We are trying to deter that thought from the minds of anyone trying to do anything sinister.” Despite the troop deployments, the AFL’s movement toward the Guinean border remains pending further directives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. There has been communication with Guinean authorities regarding the deployment, and local sentiments towards the soldiers in Voinjama have been welcoming. The ultimate goal is to affirm the security posture along the border, as officials await additional instructions to finalize their operations.
The border shared between Liberia and Guinea stretches approximately 350 miles and is delineated from Sierra Leone toward the tripoint meeting with Ivory Coast. Given the historical context of regional instability and rebel activity, both nations have recognized the need for enhanced security measures along this boundary. The recent developments surrounding Cherif’s extradition have prompted Liberia to adopt a more proactive approach in securing its borders, amid fears of renewed unrest.
In summary, the imperative to strengthen border security between Liberia and Guinea has emerged from rising concerns over potential rebel recruitment efforts. The deployment of AFL troops to Voinjama and preparations for joint patrols signify both countries’ commitment to maintaining regional stability. As the situation evolves, further coordination between the military and foreign affairs will be crucial in securing the border effectively.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
