CAREYSBURG, Montserrado County – Retired Major General Daniel D. Ziankahn has reminded officers of the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS) that Liberia depends on their commitment, discipline, and professionalism as they serve the nation.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of 100 LIS officers who successfully completed intensive firearms training,
Maj. Gen. Ziankahn emphasized the importance of responsible weapon handling and adherence to professional standards.
“When you look at the right side of your shoulder, you are bearing the flag of Liberia,” he told the graduates, urging them to uphold the country’s values and protect its citizens with integrity.
He cautioned the officers never to point a firearm at anyone or anything they do not intend to shoot and advised them to keep their fingers off the trigger until they are prepared to fire.
He also warned against the careless or unauthorized discharge of firearms.
For his part, LIS Commissioner General, Elijah F. Rufus expressed profound gratitude to the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) for providing the specialized training.
He said the program marks another significant step in strengthening the operational capacity and professionalism of the Liberia Immigration Service.
Commissioner General Rufus also cautioned the officers to remain politically neutral, stressing that involvement in partisan politics undermines their professional responsibilities and public trust.
The ceremony was attended by the heads of the National Legislature’s security committees, who commended the LIS leadership for investing in the professional development of its officers.
Representatives from the Ministries of Justice and National Defense also delivered remarks, praising the collaboration between the AFL and the LIS.
During the ceremony, three officers were recognized for their outstanding performance during the training. David P. Kollie received the Expert Shooter award, Lawrence Hodges was recognized as Sharpshooter, and Musu G. Kamara earned the Marksman award.
The three officers received certificates in recognition of their exceptional marksmanship and performance throughout the course. The 100 officers underwent intensive firearms training on the AK-47, AKM and rifle platforms under the instruction of the Armed Forces of Liberia.
The training equipped them with the knowledge and skills required for the safe handling and effective use of firearms in the discharge of their duties as security personnel.
The graduation ceremony was held at the Armed Forces of Liberia Training Command at Camp Sande Ware Military Barracks in VOA, Careysburg District, Montserrado County.
The training forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the professionalism, operational readiness and security capabilities of the Liberia Immigration Service.
