MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Early Saturday morning, a violent riot broke out in Jacob’s Town, District #2, Montserrado County, due to an alleged land dispute. The scene quickly descended into chaos, with citizens fleeing for safety amid escalating tensions.
Eyewitnesses described the situation as dire. “People are running, people are running, everybody is running. Motorbikes, everybody running. Seriously, there’s serious tension. We need more security forces here,” one resident exclaimed, highlighting the panic and urgency of the moment.
The Liberia National Police (LNP), initially on the scene to control the situation, found themselves overwhelmed. Reports indicate that even the police were attempting to escape the chaos. “The police here, the police are escaping also. The police too trying to prevent themselves,” another witness reported, underscoring the severity of the riot.
Amid the confusion, the need for additional security became evident. Calls for backup from the armed forces and other security apparatus were echoed throughout the community. “We need more backup here. We need more security apparatus. This is very serious,” residents urged, as the situation continued to deteriorate.
The riot reportedly began over a land dispute, with conflicting claims leading to violent confrontations. Eyewitness accounts reveal that rioters were armed and using live bullets and stones, intensifying the disorder. “The guys have taken over. They have weapons. We’ve been told that it is all about land issues,” one observer noted.
As the riot progressed, the nearby police station at the Jacob’s Town junction was overtaken by the rioters, further escalating the tension. “We have been told that the police station has been taken over by the rioters. It is a serious situation,” confirmed a local reporter.
Religious tensions also appeared to play a role, with reports of chants from the Muslim community adding to the complex dynamics of the riot. “The Muslims are chanting… It might sound funny to you, but it is very serious,” a witness explained.
The Liberia National Police, in a subsequent statement, confirmed that they had managed to restore order after a prolonged period of unrest. However, the incident underscores the fragile nature of peace in areas with unresolved land disputes and highlights the urgent need for increased security measures to prevent future outbreaks of violence.
As the community begins to recover, the need for a thorough investigation and resolution of the underlying land dispute remains critical to ensuring lasting peace and stability in Jacob’s Town.
