FISH TOWN, River Gee County — River Gee County authorities have directed Burkinabe nationals reportedly engaged in unauthorized farming, hunting, and settlement within forest areas in Chedepo District to leave the affected areas immediately, following a high-level meeting with community leaders and representatives of the Burkinabe community.
The meeting, led by River Gee County Superintendent Mike T. Swengbe, brought together members of the County Joint Security, the district commissioner, traditional leaders, elders, and representatives of Burkinabe nationals to address growing concerns about forest encroachment, undocumented migration, and disputes over community land.
Local authorities said the reported activities have heightened concerns among residents about the destruction of protected forests, access to farmland, community livelihoods, and security. The discussions focused on measures to stop unauthorized activities while maintaining peace between host communities and foreign nationals living in the district.
Superintendent Swengbe stressed that the county administration has a responsibility to safeguard forest resources, protect local communities, and ensure that activities within the district comply with Liberian law.
He described the reported encroachment as a growing concern, warning that forest destruction and the presence of undocumented individuals without proper screening could pose environmental and national security challenges.
During the meeting, residents raised concerns about the possible loss of farmland, damage to forest reserves, and the long-term effects of these activities on future generations. The discussions concluded with an understanding that unauthorized farming, hunting, and settlement in the affected forest areas must stop.
Authorities Outline Enforcement Measures
Following the engagement, participants agreed on three principal measures:
First, Burkinabe nationals involved in unauthorized farming, hunting, or settlement within forest areas in Chedepo District are required to leave those locations immediately.
Second, leaders of the Burkinabe community are expected to work with the county authorities to ensure compliance and facilitate an orderly and peaceful withdrawal from the affected areas.
Third, the county administration, working alongside the Joint Security, will conduct a verification exercise and take appropriate enforcement measures in the coming days.
Superintendent Swengbe said the planned operation would be carried out in accordance with Liberian law and with respect for human rights.
He warned that individuals who fail to comply with the directive could face arrest and prosecution, while any deportation proceedings would be handled in coordination with the central government, the Liberia Immigration Service, and the Ministry of Justice.
The superintendent also cautioned residents of towns and villages across Chedepo District against selling or leasing communal forest land without the required consultation and authorization from the relevant county authorities.
He urged community members and foreign residents to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities as the agreed measures are implemented.
The meeting ended with both sides expressing a commitment to preserving peace and preventing tensions from escalating during the enforcement process.
ENDS
