Monrovia – In a move to strengthen Liberia’s security infrastructure and regional crime-fighting capabilities, the European Union on Monday, April 7, 2025, donated vital equipment to the Data Collection and Registration Center (DACORE), a critical component of the West African Police Information System (WAPIS).
The contribution, hailed as a major boost to Liberia’s security sector, was warmly received by the Liberia National Police on behalf of the Joint Security. Inspector General Gregory O.W. Coleman described the donation as a reflection of the EU’s enduring commitment to global safety and collaboration. “This generous contribution reflects a commitment to not just local but also global safety. We accept it with deep appreciation,” Coleman said during the handover ceremony.
The support comes at a time when Liberia, along with its West African neighbors, faces increasing challenges from cross-border criminal activities, including human trafficking, terrorism, and drug smuggling. DACORE serves as the country’s centralized hub for biometric and travel data, essential for tracking movements across borders and identifying persons of interest.
EU Representative Marie Paule Neuville underscored the importance of a strong, integrated approach to security in the subregion. She noted that the challenges DACORE continues to face underscore the urgency for sustained partnerships and targeted investments. “The EU remains dedicated to enhancing the capacity of Liberia’s security institutions, not just for the sake of the country, but for the collective safety of the region,” Neuville remarked.
Minister of Justice, Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh Sr., echoed similar sentiments, calling the EU’s support “timely and essential.” He emphasized the importance of accurate data in prosecuting major crimes and monitoring movements in and out of the country. “This gesture is a meaningful step toward building a future where collaboration and shared responsibility reinforce peace and protection,” the Justice Minister stated.
The EU’s continued backing of the WAPIS program in Liberia signals an effort to align regional security systems with international standards. As crime networks grow increasingly sophisticated and transnational, Liberia’s ability to access and share real-time data with regional partners has become paramount.
