In an effort to regulate firearms and improve public safety, the Liberia National Commission on Arms (LiNCA) has introduced a new registration initiative targeting private gun owners, including individuals and non-state actors. The program focuses on single-barrel guns and automatic pistols, ensuring that only legally approved weapons are in circulation.
LiNCA Chairman James Fromayan emphasized that all firearms must be imported through official government channels, warning against the dangers of smuggled weapons. “We want to ensure that every gun in private hands is accounted for and properly licensed,” Fromayan stated. “This is about responsible ownership, not arming civilians recklessly.”
Prospective applicants will undergo thorough background checks conducted by security agencies, including the Liberia National Police (LNP) and the National Security Agency (NSA). The vetting process aims to prevent firearms from falling into the hands of individuals with criminal histories or violent tendencies.
Fromayan clarified that the commission will not sell or store firearms but will instead oversee the legal registration of weapons already in private possession. The program primarily targets credible individuals seeking to register guns for personal protection, particularly during nighttime when security risks may be higher.
“We are not encouraging widespread gun ownership,” Fromayan explained. “This is about regulating existing firearms to ensure they are used responsibly and lawfully.”
While some Liberians welcome the move as a step toward better security, others express concerns about potential misuse of registered firearms. Civil society groups have called for transparency in the vetting process to prevent corruption or favoritism.
The Liberia National Police has assured the public that strict monitoring will be in place, with penalties for anyone found violating firearm regulations. Authorities hope the initiative will reduce illegal arms trafficking while allowing responsible citizens to protect themselves within legal boundaries.
As the registration process begins, the government urges all private gun owners to comply with the new measures, reinforcing that accountability is key to a safer Liberia.
