-LIS Region 3 Commander Highlights Border Security Challenges
By: Shallon S. Gonlor / shallonsgonlor@gmail.com
NIMBA COUNTY – The Liberia Immigration Service (LIS) Region 3 Commander, Madam Yei Dolopei says border security remains a significant challenge, particularly along the Nimba, Bong and Lofa Counties border, with ongoing concerns about illegal immigration, drug smuggling, and the potential for terrorist threats.
While efforts to strengthen border enforcement, including technological advancements and increased personnel, have been implemented, challenges persist.
LIS Region 3 Commander Dolopei wants the government to prioritize support for border security infrastructure in Lofa, Nimba, and Bong Counties, citing major logistical and structural challenges that are impeding the work of immigration officers in the region.
Speaking to reporters from Radio Kergheamah over the weekend in Gompa City, Madam Dolopei emphasize the pressing need for shelter at several border entry points, particularly as the rainy season intensifies across the three counties of the region.
Commander Dolopei noted that many of the posts remain exposed and vulnerable during heavy rainfall, which poses a significant risk to national security.
“As it stands, most of our officers operate under harsh conditions without proper shelter,” she stated. “This not only threatens their safety but also weakens our ability to monitor and control cross-border activities effectively in our assigned area.”
During her recent inspection tour of various entry points across Region 3, Madam Dolopei also identified the need for motorcycles to help officers access remote and hard-to-reach areas.
“Many of the border points, are only accessible by foot, severely limiting patrol and surveillance effort.” She lamented.
Addressing electricity issues at the various border points in her region, she noted that the solar lights previously installed through support from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) are now non-functional due to dead batteries. As such restoring these systems is crucial to enabling nighttime visibility and deterring illegal crossings.
“These challenges—lack of shelter, electricity, and mobility—are collectively hampering the operational efficiency of the LIS in this region,” she emphasized. “We are calling on the central government to allocate the needed resources to enhance border security and ensure national safety.”
Despite the setbacks, Madam Dolopei praised the people of Nimba County for their peaceful participation in the recently held April 22 senatorial by-election. She described their conduct as a demonstration of patriotism and strong adherence to democratic values.
“The Region Three Commander of the Liberia Immigration Service said the peaceful environment we witnessed during the election is a testament to the maturity and commitment of Nimbaians to the rule of law and democracy.
Madam Dolopaye’s statements come at a time when border security is increasingly seen as a national priority amid rising concerns about illegal immigration and cross-border crimes.
