By By: Staff Writer
More than 300 youths in Foya District, Lofa County, have reportedly mobilized at the Sorlumba border point following a shooting incident involving Guinean troops early Wednesday, heightening fears of a potential confrontation between civilians and armed soldiers.
According to situational reports from the area, Guinean troops remain stationed across the Makona River, with some soldiers allegedly positioned in trees and armed with firearms, including locally described weapons known as “snappers.”
On the Liberian side of the disputed crossing, large groups of Foya youths have gathered, burning tires and chanting slogans while declaring control over their side of the border.
In a related development, the Liberian flag that was hoisted by youths in the disputed area on Tuesday evening was earlier removed by Liberian authorities and returned to its previous position, reportedly as part of efforts to ease tensions. However, the youths later re-hoisted the flag for a second time, signaling what they describe as Liberia’s claim over the contested territory.
Meanwhile, a delegation from the Ministry of Local Government, led by Minister Francis S. Nyumalin, is reportedly heading to the disputed border to initiate fresh diplomatic engagement with Guinean authorities** in an effort to calm the situation and prevent further escalation.
The renewed engagement comes amid reports that earlier diplomatic outreach from Liberian authorities was ignored by Guinean officials, leaving the situation along the Sorlumba–Makona River corridor tense and uncertain.
