NIMBA COUNTY, LIBERIA – At least two members of the Bility Development Foundation (BDF) have gone missing following a tragic incident at the Yar River, which flows between electoral districts #4 and #2 in Nimba County, Liberia. The incident occurred on Saturday, August 24, 2024. The missing individuals, identified as Lawrence and Morris, are believed to be the bodyguards of Mr. Musa Hassan Bility, the CEO of the Bility Development Foundation and the representative of District #7 in Nimba County at the National Legislature.
The unfortunate event took place as the Bility Development Foundation, led by Representative Bility, was in the process of commencing construction on a much-needed bridge over the Yar River. The construction project, which has been a long-standing dream for the residents of districts #2 and #4, was being launched in collaboration with Representative Nyahn Flomo of District #2. The bridge is intended to connect the nearby towns of Payee and Tiapa, providing a vital link for the local communities.
The incident happened when a raft carrying several members of the foundation, including Representative Bility’s bodyguards, capsized in the Yar River. Despite efforts to rescue those on board, at least two individuals went missing in the swift current of the river. The sudden and unexpected capsizing of the raft has left the community in shock and mourning, with many fearing the worst for the missing men.
In a statement posted on his Facebook page following the incident, Representative Bility expressed his deep sorrow and concern for the missing individuals. “Our team has experienced a tragic event,” he wrote. “While returning from a program in District 2 Nimba County with Hon. Nyahn Flomo, where the people of the District requested our assistance in constructing a bridge at the Yar River crossing connecting Tiapa and Payee, D4-D2, the raft carrying our team capsized, leading to the disappearance of two individuals. Regrettably, my bodyguard and secretary are currently missing. Your thoughts and prayers are greatly appreciated during this difficult time.”
This is not the first such incident to occur in the area, which is known for its challenging river crossings and limited infrastructure. The construction of the bridge over the Yar River is seen as a critical development for the region, promising to improve safety and accessibility for the local population. However, the current tragedy underscores the dangers that residents and workers face when attempting to navigate the river without proper infrastructure in place.
Local authorities and community members have launched a search and rescue operation in hopes of locating the missing individuals. As efforts continue, the families of Lawrence and Morris, along with the entire community, are holding onto hope for a positive outcome. The thoughts and prayers of many are with the bereaved families, as well as with the offices of Representatives Bility and Flomo, as they cope with this heartbreaking situation.
The incident at Yar River has highlighted the urgent need for improved infrastructure and safety measures in rural areas of Liberia, particularly in regions where river crossings are a daily necessity. The Bility Development Foundation, under the leadership of Representative Bility, remains committed to fulfilling the dream of a bridge over the Yar River, despite this tragic setback. The foundation has vowed to continue working towards the development and safety of Nimba County’s communities, in honor of those who have lost their lives in the pursuit of progress.
