The Liberia Land Authority (LLA) has launched a comprehensive crackdown on the illegal sale and occupation of wetlands in Montserrado County.
This move aims at preserving critical ecosystems and reducing environmental risks.
LLA Chairman Samuel Kpakio led an inspection tour on Thursday, May 8, 2025, visiting several key wetland areas, including the 72nd Community in Paynesville, Carseysburg King Farm, Barnesville and Caldwell Township.
The initiative comes in response to rising concerns over unauthorized land transactions and encroachments, which are contributing to severe flooding, habitat destruction, and environmental degradation.
During the tour, Kpakio warned that the ongoing rainy season could significantly exacerbate these risks, threatening lives, property, and critical habitats.
He stressed that wetland encroachment not only endangers natural ecosystems, but also poses serious health risks to communities.
At the King Farm community in Careysburg, the inspection team encountered claims of property disputes involving a local church.
Reports indicate that residents allegedly encroaching on church-owned land have damaged palm farms and other assets, with some individuals reportedly carrying weapons and issuing threats.
The LLA urged all parties involved to present proper ownership documents, noting that, to date, only the church has complied with this request.
The inspection also highlighted concerns over the activities of the Chinese construction firm Ruixu Concrak, which has been building on wetland areas in Johnsonville and Dixville.
This ongoing construction is further complicating conservation efforts, prompting calls for immediate action to prevent further environmental harm.
Mr. Kpakio also met with Caldwell Township Commissioner Ibrahim Sapee, and other local officials to discuss collaborative measures for wetland protection.
He said, government will not tolerate unauthorized construction on “these sensitive lands,” underscoring the critical role of community leaders in safeguarding their environments.
“The rainy season is here, and people building on these wetlands without proper authorization are putting entire communities at risk,” Kpakio said.
“We are committed to ensuring that our citizens are safe from the dangers posed by unregulated wetland development.”
The LLA’s efforts are being supported by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as part of a broader initiative to protect wetlands across Montserrado County and its surrounding areas.