By: Shallon S. Gonlor |
shallonsgonlor@gmail.com
NIMBA COUNTY, Liberia — Residents and local community leaders in New Barracks Community, situated at Camp Grant Military Barracks vicinity in Nimba County are praising the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) presence in their community — driving away criminals and restoring peace.
However, this progress comes at a cost, as many locals struggle with evictions from the military structures they have occupied for years, citing squatter rights issued by former City Mayor, Meima Karama.
The newly renovated Camp Grant Military Barracks, dedicated in August 2025 by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, aims to improve AFL welfare and housing. The facility features 11 buildings and 62 residential apartments, enhancing military readiness.
Residents grapple with housing insecurity, highlighting the balance between safety and shelter.
Prince Z. Worluo, the Spokesperson for the New Barracks Community, has shared a mixed bag of emotions from the community regarding the AFL’s return to the military barracks. Initially, residents were unhappy and worried about eviction, as many dwellers had structures and businesses in the area, supporting their families and children’s education.
However, Worluo praised the military, saying their presence has significantly cut down criminal activities like theft, hijacking, armed robbery, rape, aggravated assault, and others.
“The unfinished and abandoned Army Barracks used to be a hub for criminals,” Worluo said. “They will converge there at 11:00 p.m. to attack peaceful citizens, harassing and brutalizing them, taking valuables like phones and motorbikes. It was a barrier, a real crime hotspot. You couldn’t walk outside easily, especially on the main road of the Barracks street.”
Worluo maintained that things have suddenly changed since the AFL returned, adding that residents can now move freely, doing their daily hustle and sleeping peacefully under the protection of soldiers at Camp Grant Military Barracks.
“Criminals are not floating around like before,” Worluo said. “We are proud to have the military in our midst.”
Robert L. Gono, the community’s Chairman, has praised the Government of Liberia for deploying the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) to his community, marking a significant milestone in post-war efforts to provide maximum security.
However, in the same statement, Chairman Gono made a heartfelt appeal to the government, urging them to consider awarding compensation to individuals affected by the AFL’s eviction at the Sanniquellie Barracks.
“For us, our leadership is requesting the national government to compensate our people whose properties were left in the army zone. It’s hard for them to just walk away empty-handed and start over. It’s difficult,” Chairman Gono said, echoing the cries of his community members.
“The cry is coming from behind me. The pressure is on my back. When I hear them crying, I share their tears. I encourage my people to feel free with the army, but we need support.”
