LNP Cracks Down on Illegal U-Turns, Enforces Price Cap on Fuel in Maryland County

By Rocheford T. Gardiner

HARPER, MARYLAND COUNTY – The Liberia National Police (LNP) have launched a targeted traffic enforcement operation at the intersection of Mechlin Street and Maryland Avenue following a surge in pedestrian complaints and several “near-miss” accidents.

For weeks, residents in Harper have expressed growing alarm over motorists performing illegal U-turns at the busy crossroad. The shift in driver behavior is largely attributed to the recent “explosion” of commercial vehicles traveling between the capital, Harper, and the commercial hub of Pleebo—a result of significantly improved road connectivity between Monrovia and the southeastern region.

While the LNP has historically cited a lack of manpower and logistics as barriers to consistent patrolling, the recent intervention has been met with local approval. Early reports indicate that most drivers are now adhering to the warnings, opting for alternative routes to rejoin Maryland Avenue safely.

Joint Security Enforce Fuel Price Caps

In a simultaneous effort to stabilize the local economy, County Superintendent Henry Cole ordered the strict enforcement of price caps on petroleum products effective December 29.

The mandate follows reports of “unscrupulous” business owners in Harper hoarding gasoline to create artificial shortages and drive-up prices. To counter this, members of Liberia’s Joint Security conducted a sweep across the county, resulting in business closures, seizure of goods, temporary confiscation of petroleum products and price standardizationof $LRD 800 per gallon.

Authorities have signaled that these patrols will continue to ensure that both traffic safety and fair market prices are maintained during the busy holiday season.