Liberia: AFL Locks Down Star Base over Fatal Shooting

AFL Chief of Staff Gen. Prince C. Johnson. 

The Ministry of National Defense and Headquarters Armed Forces of Liberia has ordered a lockdown of its duty station at the Star Base Bushrod Island after a fatal shooting at about 2030hrs on June 6, involving one of its personnel. 

This sad incident resulted in the death of a soldier and severe injury to another who is undergoing medical treatment and care at the John F. Kennedy Medical Center.

"The motive behind the shooting is yet to be established. Notwithstanding, the Provost's Marshall and the Military Police are currently involved with the investigation to establish the motive behind the shooting," disclosed Sam K. Collins, Assistant Minister for Public Affairs at the Ministry of Defense in a release. "The Liberia National Police is also involved in aiding the investigation."

The release added Defense and the AFL are assuring the public that all is under control and a preliminary report will be provided as soon as possible. 

The release noted that Defense and Headquarters Armed Forces of Liberia acknowledge that protecting military installations, and the people who work and live there from such incidents is a major undertaking. 

"Finally, identifying security solutions and gaps on our installations where we served has always been a priority and all recommendations coming from the investigation will be taken seriously. The families of the victims have been contacted and all necessary assistance or support for them has been considered."