AFL Takes Stand Against Illicit Natural Resource Practices In Liberia

By Henry Gboluma

BOPOLU CITY, Gbarpolu-In a significant move to protect Liberia’s natural resources and combat other illicit activities, the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) has launched Operation True Guardian.

Operation True Guardian is a nationwide initiative aimed at enhancing security and fostering collaboration with local communities, officials of the AFL have said.

The operation was unveiled during an awareness visit in Bopolu City on March 21, 2025, and will commence with a focus on Sector ‘A’, which includes Montserrado, Margibi, Grand Cape Mount, Bomi, and Gbarpolu Counties.

The AFL’s Operation True Guardian comes in the wake of sustained media publication and public outcry on illicit activities taking placing in the natural resource sector of the country, including human trafficking and drugs, with the Liberia Forest Media Watch and Daylight leading the media campaign.

A Comprehensive Strategy for National Security

As Liberia grapples with increasing security challenges, such as transnational maritime crimes, drug trafficking, and smuggling, the AFL is stepping up to ensure the safety and stability of the nation.

Major El-Dorado Nyanti Jebboe, Deputy Chief of Public Affairs, said, “This operation will be conducted in the entire country. We thought it wise to start with Sector ‘A’…to clearly project the AFL’s preparedness to safeguard the national borders and natural resources.”

He further said that this patrol is about making the presence of AFL felt throughout the country for the enhancement of security. It is also meant to restore hope in our populace.

Engaging Communities and Building Trust

Understanding the need for transparency and community involvement, the AFL is committed to establishing operational bases in each county according to the AFL. This will facilitate direct engagement with local governments and law enforcement agencies.

Lt. Col. Stephen Tor Tarpelah, Chief of Public Affairs of the AFL, highlighted the importance of communication: “Our objective in Gbarpolu now is to dismiss misinformation and do due diligence to Liberia. We are not coming to embarrass our peaceful citizens.”

To further build trust, Tarpelah said, “This is why we first called the stakeholders and engaged them upon our arrival to make sure that our people are informed to help us succeed.”

He said that the AFL is keen on dispelling any concerns about military presence, reassuring communities that their intentions are rooted in safeguarding national interests.

Targeting Illicit Activities Head-On

With intelligence gathered on hotspots for illegal activities, the AFL is prepared to take decisive action.  Major Jebboe underscored the urgency of this mission: “We know the hotspots where illegal activities are going on. We are losing huge minerals to these illicit activities.”

The operation will be rolled out in three sectors, strategically targeting areas most affected by crime according to the AFL’s Public Affairs Soldiers.

Tarpelah stated, “These guys have been having free rides over time, and now it is about time that we save Liberia from these kinds of things through this operation.”

As Operation True Guardian unfolds beginning this Monday, March 24, 2025 in Western Liberia, the AFL Public Affairs Chief said that the AFL stands ready to protect Liberia’s resources and secure a brighter future for its citizens.

He believes that through community cooperation and military diligence, Liberia can aspire to a safer, more prosperous tomorrow.