LOFA, COUNTY, LIBERIA – Tension escalated along the Liberia–Guinea border on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, after youths from several towns in Lofa County reportedly took control of the Sorlumba Port of Entry following reports that Guinean soldiers fired gunshots in the area.
Local residents said the youths gathered in large numbers around the border crossing near Foya District, expressing anger over the reported actions of Guinean troops and vowing to defend Liberian territory. Witnesses said the youths were heard chanting, “We will protect our land,” as they moved to assert control of the border point.
Authorities said the situation quickly drew the attention of local government officials and security forces, who began moving toward the border to calm tensions and prevent the situation from deteriorating further.
Police officers, along with the local commissioner in the Foya area, were reportedly dispatched to the scene in an effort to restore order and discourage any confrontation between civilians and armed personnel near the border.
The tension comes amid reports that a Liberian citizen identified as Edward Larbie was allegedly shot in the leg by Guinean soldiers during the incident. Local sources said the shooting heightened fears among residents and fueled the anger that led youths to gather at the port of entry.
Larbie is currently being transferred to Tellewoyan Memorial Hospital in Voinjama for treatment as medical authorities work to stabilize his condition. His injury has further intensified concern among residents of nearby communities.
The incident is the latest development in a growing border dispute that has raised alarm among citizens in Lofa County, particularly in communities located close to the frontier with Guinea.
Meanwhile, the Government of Liberia has called for calm, assuring citizens that it has taken control of the situation and is engaging Guinean authorities through diplomatic channels to prevent further escalation.
In a statement issued Tuesday, March 10, 2026, the government said it is actively addressing the unfolding situation along the Liberia–Guinea border through established diplomatic efforts.
According to the statement, the administration of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai is working closely with relevant national and local institutions while maintaining communication with Guinean counterparts to resolve the matter peacefully.
As part of the government’s response, President Boakai has reportedly dispatched a high-level inter-ministerial delegation to the border region. The delegation includes officials from the Ministries of Defense, Local Government, Foreign Affairs, and Justice.
Authorities said discussions with Guinean officials are focused on addressing the current situation, strengthening cooperation between local authorities on both sides of the border, and ensuring that peace and stability are maintained for citizens living in the affected communities.
The government has also urged citizens, particularly those in border areas, to remain law-abiding and rely only on verified information from official sources while diplomatic efforts continue to address the situation.
