By: Emmanuel Koffa
Grand Kru County,Barclayville City-December 24,2024-Administrative Officer, Alphonso DN Teah, has formally called for a thorough investigation into a recent incident involving George T. Woyan, serving as Liberia Immigration Officer, Maryland Detachment.
The Ghanaian national who is only identified as “Kitchen” was injured by a live bullet during an inspection conducted by a team from the Ministry of Lands and Mines in Satiken, a locality within Grand Kru County.
Satiken, is a densely populated gold mining community in the Forpoh Statutory District where reports recently revealed that officer George T. Woyan of the Liberia Immigration Service allegedly used firearm on a Ghanaian national (Kitchen) in a struggle that erupted when the LIS officer and others had gone there to effect operation on an alleged drugs dealers.
The Grand Kru County Administrative Officer has described the use of firearm by security officer in the County that is of no security threat as counterproductive to the peace and tranquility of the citizens of Grand kru.
Accordingly, the incident occurred amidst ongoing efforts to monitor and regulate illegal mining activities and uphold the laws governing land use in that part of the country, as the precise circumstances that resulted in the discharge of the firearm remain unclear, prompting calls for a comprehensive inquiry.
In his statement, Alphonso DN Teah emphasized the need for immediate action to ascertain the facts underlying this unfortunate event. “The safety of our citizens, as well as those serving in our government, is paramount. It is crucial that we thoroughly investigate this incident to understand how it occurred and ensure that accountability is upheld,” Teah remarked.
He expressed his concern regarding the potential implications of such incidents may have on peace and security in Grand Kru County.
The Ghanaian national (Kitchen) was reported to have sustained injuries from the bullet and has since been receiving medical attention at the J. J. Dossen Hospital in Maryland County.
Details regarding his current condition remain limited, but local sources indicate that his injuries are serious yet stable.
The administrative officer extended his thoughts and prayers to victim Kitchen and his family during this challenging time.
The incident has sparked calls for more significant oversight and mediation efforts to prevent future confrontations.
However, the Ministry of Lands and Mines has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident, but stakeholders await a comprehensive response outlining their commitment to investigating the matter and maintaining peace in the area.
Meanwhile, Augustine T. Gbalego, the Commander of the Liberia Immigration Service, Grand Kru Detachment has since confirmed the incident but has assured the victim family including citizens of proper and timely investigation.
Augustine T. Gbalego, the Commander of the Liberia Immigration Service, Grand Kru Detachment said, the perpetrator was arrested following the response of the Joint Security of Grand Kru County, while undergoing thorough investigation.
The call for an investigation by Alphonso DN Teah stands as a reminder of the ongoing challenges Liberia faces in ensuring the safety of its officials and the effective management of her natural resources.
Edited: Jesefu Morris Keita
