By By: Staff Writer
Foya District, Lofa County — Only hours after high-level peace talks among Mano River Union (MRU) member states in Conakry, local authorities in Foya District have confirmed that more than 200 Guinean soldiers have crossed into Liberian territory at the Sorlumba border point—marking what officials describe as a third tension despite ongoing dialogue efforts.
The presence of the troops was verified early Tuesday morning following multiple complaints from residents and circulating social media reports, raising fresh concerns over the credibility of commitments made during the recent MRU engagement. The development has unsettled residents and triggered heightened security alertness across the area.
Foya District Commissioner B. Njamilah S. Bornguoi confirmed that the Guinean forces had moved across the border and were stationed within Liberia’s territory.
“I have verified that the Guinean have crossed over two hundred men and are now deployed on our side as of this morning,” Bornguoi said.
He stressed that the situation contradicts the spirit of cooperation emphasized during the regional dialogue, casting doubt on Guinea’s assurances.
According to the commissioner, the matter has been promptly reported to national authorities, including the county leadership and the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Security forces, among them the Liberia Immigration Service and the Emergency Response Unit of the Liberia National Police, have already been deployed to monitor developments.
“The superintendent is on his way, and upon arrival, we will all proceed to the border,” Bornguoi noted, signaling an imminent joint assessment.
The reported troop movement comes shortly after Guinean military authorities indicated plans to withdraw forces from disputed border zones. However, new visual evidence circulating locally appears to show both Guinean and Liberian security personnel positioned within Liberian territory, complicating the situation further.
Expressing concern, Commissioner Bornguoi questioned Guinea’s consistency, noting that past experiences have shown discrepancies between official statements and actions on the ground.
Residents around the Sorlumba crossing are increasingly anxious, with reports of tension rising as fears mount over a possible escalation. The incident highlights the fragile nature of peace along the Liberia–Guinea border, even as diplomatic engagements continue under the MRU framework.
