More than twenty corrections officers of the Bureau of Corrections and Rehabilitation (BCR) were presented certificates in early May following training in security and use of non lethal force at the Liberia National Police Training Academy. The programme was launched nine months ago by UNMIL and the government of Liberia (GoL), and funded by Swedish Prison and Probation Services (SPPS) which has promised further support in the same field.

 
In an end of course message, the Director of SPPS expressed his government’s gratitude to the GoL and UNMIL for the collaboration that led to the successful utilization of funds provided by Sweden. Lisa Lujngstrom from the Swedish Embassy in Liberia said, “Swedish Embassy is proud to have been a partner. Our partnership over the years was fruitful in many areas including smart security and use of non lethal force.” She hoped for continued cooperation in other areas of Swedish support in the future.

Marjo Callaghan, Chief of UNMIL Corrections Advisory Unit said nine years of collaboration signifies “true achievement” with positive impact on professional performances of corrections officers. She urged trainees to continue exercising professionalism at all times irrespective of daunting challenges. “We are aware of your vigilance in arresting contrabands before they got into prisons and subduing prisoners to avert violence amongst inmates,” Callaghan said.

Assistant Justice Minister for Corrections and Rehabilitation Hilary Siakor-Sirleaf thanked officials of Swedish Embassy and UNMIL for their support to the programme. Sirleaf said the exercise “would not have been possible without supportive roles played by government of Sweden and UNMIL.” He particularly thanked Swedish Prison and Probation Officers for provision of support to the national corrections trainers who conducted most of the training.