The Special Representative of the Secretary-General Ellen Margrethe Løj has urged officers of the Liberia National Police (LNP) to remain mindful of the need to balance the rights of the individual with the necessity at times, to act, including the decision of when to use force. She said in response to situations such as the 7 November incident, all angles must be investigated to ensure that the response is based on the best judgment possible with the best information available, and that those who act inappropriately are held accountable.

At a ceremony to recognize the work of the police in Monrovia on Monday, the head of the United Nations Mission in Liberia, applauded officers of the LNP, for the significant strides and stressed that the overwhelming majority of them are dedicated to serving their communities, making the right decisions in the face of often difficult and dangerous circumstances.

In confronting its challenges, SRSG Løj assured the LNP that it is not alone and that UNMIL and UNPOL will continue to work with it in defense of these ideals and in keeping the peace. "The United Nations has a clear mandate in Liberia to keep the peace and to ensure the protection of Liberian civilians, and we will not hesitate to step in to do so, in any situation", she mentioned.

As an institution, the UN Envoy noted, the LNP continues to develop along a course that reaffirms Liberia's commitment to peace and security and that the progress was noteworthy, but there was more to be achieved. "Have no doubt, this is a collective effort and one to which we remain fully committed", she told the men and women of the LNP; and to the leadership of the LNP, she stated: "You are on the right track. Stay the course, be accountable, and be responsible in your decisions".

UN Envoy Loj used the occasion to caution all Liberians against testing the resolve of the police and asked them to refrain from resorting to violence to resolve disagreements but through dialogue. "Violence is simply not acceptable and the LNP with the support of the United Nations will deal with violators and protect innocent Liberian citizens" she assured the public.