Monrovia, Liberia — Liberia’s Inspector General of Police, Greg Coleman, has announced a strict crackdown on the unauthorized use of sirens by government officials and private individuals, warning that full enforcement will begin within the next seven days.
In a formal notice sent to the House of Representatives, Coleman underscored the urgent need to regulate siren use, citing growing concerns that unauthorized use poses serious threats to public safety and national order.
Quoting Title 38, Chapter 6, Section 6.21 of the 1972 Vehicle and Traffic Law of Liberia, the Police Chief stressed that sirens are reserved strictly for emergency purposes.
According to the law:
“Any authorized Police, Fire, or other Emergency or official vehicle may be equipped with a siren, whistle, or bell of a type approved by the Minister, which device shall be capable of emitting sound audible under normal conditions at a distance of at least 500 feet. Such siren, whistle, or bell shall not be used except when the vehicle is being operated in response to a fire alarm or other emergency call, in the immediate pursuit of a suspected criminal, or on other emergency business.”
Coleman emphasized that misuse of sirens will no longer be tolerated and that violators, regardless of status, will face enforcement measures and penalties.
Lawmakers Urged to Lead by Example
The Police Inspector General specifically appealed to members of the Legislature to set an example by adhering to the law. “We cannot expect ordinary citizens to comply when some of our highest-ranking leaders ignore these rules. The House must show leadership,” Coleman noted in his communication.
The crackdown follows widespread public complaints about the misuse of sirens, often by officials or private individuals seeking to bypass traffic. Many citizens argue that the practice creates chaos on the roads, intimidates drivers, and undermines respect for traffic regulations.
Enforcement Timeline
The Liberia National Police has announced that full enforcement of siren regulations will commence within a week. The IG is scheduled to meet with the House Leadership to discuss practical steps for ensuring compliance across all sectors.
The House of Representatives, in response, reaffirmed its commitment to upholding public safety and ensuring equal enforcement of traffic laws across the country.
Public Reaction
Early public reactions to the Police IG’s notice have been largely positive, with many commuters welcoming the decision. Critics, however, caution that enforcement must be consistent and impartial, warning against selective application of the law that could target ordinary citizens while leaving well-connected violators untouched.
The coming days will determine how effectively the Liberia National Police enforces the ban and whether the crackdown will mark a turning point in restoring order and discipline on the nation’s roads.
