The Security Expert Guard Agency of Liberia (SEGAL) has confirmed plan to lay off 499 of its workforces.
SEGAL has offices in Grand Bassa, Bong, and Nimba counties. Its redundant plan has sparked concern among security guards, and other personnel. Meanwhile, questions are raised about the impact of corporate cost-cutting on ordinary Liberians already struggling with economic hardship.
SEGAL Security Manager, Dave Freeman, announced the layoffs plan on Monday, October 19, at the company’s Buchanan office.
Freeman pronouncement followed a reduction in subcontracting work from ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML).
The decision has left hundreds of security guards facing unemployment, and uncertainty over how they will support their families.
Freeman explained how AML had informed SEGAL of global economic challenges, including falling iron ore prices, which have reportedly affected the company’s operations, and led to reduced engagement with some subcontractors.
“The decline in available work left SEGAL with little choice, but to reduce its workforce.”
Beyond the layoffs, questions have emerged over unpaid salaries owed to some SEGAL employees. For that, Freeman acknowledged that some workers were owed wages for August, while others were awaiting payment for work performed up to September 15.
The outstanding payments have added to the concerns of workers, who are now without jobs, and may also be waiting for money already earned.
Freeman expressed regret over the layoffs, and appealed to the dismissed employees to remain patient. He explained how the company was working behind the scenes to raise funds to settle its outstanding wage obligations to the redundant workers.
He assured the workers that SEGAL recognizes its responsibility to pay what it owes. However, the company has not announced a specific date for completing the payments, leaving affected employees uncertain about when they will receive their money.
The situation also raises questions about the protection of subcontracted workers when major companies reduce their commercial engagements.
While global market conditions may affect corporate decisions, the consequences can fall heavily on employees, who have little control over commodity prices, contracting arrangements, or management decisions. The layoffs underscore the need for transparent communication, timely payment of outstanding wages, and stronger attention to the welfare of workers affected by sudden employment disruptions.
As the 499 workers confront the immediate consequences of losing their jobs, attention is now focused on whether SEGAL will fulfill its wage obligations, and whether alternative employment opportunities will emerge.
