Liberia: Discovery of Ammunition in Nimba Leaves Citizens in Fear

Several Liberians have expressed grave concerns over the recent discovery of ammunition in Ganta City, Nimba County. The discovery of over one thousand rounds of ammunition in Blagay Town community has created panic and insecurity among citizens and foreign residents, especially with this year’s elections fast approaching.

In an interview with a local newspaper on April 11th, 2023, one of the concerned Liberians stated that the continued discovery of firearms in the country is completely alarming and worrisome. They called for the intervention of the international community to help address the issue.

The ammunition discovered in Nimba is believed to be AK-47 and GMG rounds, along with seven empty shells, and was turned over to the Ganta Police detachment. Nimba County was the birthplace of the 1989 rebel incursion in Liberia by jailed former Liberian president Charles Taylor through Butuo, a border town.

Liberians have expressed extreme fear over the constant discovery of guns across the country, which they believe is somehow sinister and political. They have accused the government of allegedly refusing to bring any culprits to book. With the elections just a few months away, they worry about their safety in Liberia.

Amelia Konneh, a resident of Carey Street in Central Monrovia, has launched an appeal for the Liberian government to investigate the matter urgently. James Massaquoi, a local street vendor, described Liberia as an unsafe state and suggested that the country needs the intervention of the international community.

Massaquoi noted that they are finding it difficult to survive in Liberia, and hearing news about the continuous discovery of arms across the country shows that someone is planning something crazy. He alleged that the government needs to tell the citizens who is bringing these guns into the country and for what reason. They are living in total fear in their own country, and they need an investigation.

Following the discovery of the ammunition in Nimba, the Police Commander, Archie Dennis, took delivery of them, along with empty shells. A 16-year-old lad, Arlington Gbosue, made the discovery when he went to clean the backyard of his parents’ home. The area is adjacent to the residence of a notorious Ivorian armed robber, Abu Weamie, who is currently detained at the Sanniqullie Center Prison in Sanniquellie City, Nimba.

Arms have also been discovered buried in other parts of the country, including Lofa County, which was heavily contested by rival armed factions during the civil war. The commercial district has suffered several armed robberies with suspects arrested for being in possession of automatic weapons and ammunition.

In addition, Liberian Joint Security forces assigned at the Ganta-Guinea border have arrested several persons with single-barrel guns and rounds.

In conclusion, the discovery of ammunition in Nimba County has raised serious concerns and fears among Liberians. They call for urgent action from the government and the international community to address this issue, investigate who is behind it, and ensure the safety and security of all citizens and foreign residents.