A fuel spill from a tanker stationed at the compound of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Buchanan has triggered a rush by residents attempting to collect the leaking gasoline, sparking serious safety concerns.
Eyewitnesses reported that dozens of locals, including young people, hurried to the scene with buckets and containers, eager to gather the fuel. Some openly admitted their intent to sell the gasoline to cover pressing expenses such as school fees.
Security Forces Intervene
Security personnel quickly intervened, securing the area and warning residents of the dangers posed by the highly flammable substance. Authorities emphasized the risks of fire, explosion, and potential loss of life, urging the public to prioritize safety over short-term gains.
Church Responds.
The Church confirmed that the tanker had been brought in for operational purposes and that the leak was a recent development. Leaders of the congregation dismissed circulating rumors suggesting the existence of an underground fuel depot at the premises.
“This was an unfortunate accident, not an illegal storage operation,” a church representative clarified.
Community Safety Concerns
Local officials have urged residents to refrain from attempting to recover or resell the fuel, calling instead for cooperation with safety measures as cleanup operations are underway.
The incident highlights the ongoing public safety challenges surrounding fuel handling and storage in Liberia, where economic hardship often pushes communities to take significant risks in pursuit of income.
It may be recalled, a devastating gas tanker explosion occurred on December 26, 2023, in Totota, Bong County, Liberia, which killed at least 89 people. The casualty toll also included more than 40 non-fatal injuries.
According to eyewitnesses, the accident began when a fuel truck crashed and toppled over on its side. while some locals rushed to the scene to collect the leaking fuel, the tanker exploded, causing a massive fire. Eyewitnesses reported that people were climbing onto the tanker and even hitting it with objects to access the gas.
Many of the casualties suffered severe burns, and some victims’ bodies were so badly burned that they were unrecognizable. Health officials noted that a final death toll was difficult to confirm.
Totota is a rural town located about 130 km (80 miles) from Liberia’s capital, Monrovia.
Response to the tragedy
Former Liberia President George Weah declared a week of national mourning and expressed sympathy for the victims.
health official Dr. Cynthia Blapook attended a mass funeral for many of the unrecognizable victims. Local hospitals in Bong County, including Phebe Hospital, were overwhelmed with patients.
In January 2024, the World Bank allocated financial support to assist victims and ensure the uninterrupted provision of medical oxygen and other supplies.
Neighbouring Sierra Leone sent medical workers, while international groups like Samaritan’s Purse and Lutheran World Relief also provided aid, including medical teams, supplies, and food.
The tragedy prompted calls from health officials for the public to stay away from fuel tankers involved in accidents. It also highlighted Liberia’s road safety challenges, as poor infrastructure makes sub-Saharan Africa the world’s deadliest region for traffic crashes
