By Vaye Abel Lepolu
Monrovia, Liberia – The Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS) and the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) have confirmed that 21 people were severely affected and one person, identified as Lebanese national Abraham Anawie, lost his life following a gas tanker explosion at the Mira Gas Company compound near the Freeport of Monrovia.
According to him 19 persons were carried JFK hospital in Sinkor while others to near by private hospitals for treatment.
LNFS Director General Warsuwal Barvoul extended the government’s condolences to the victims and their families, assuring that steps are being taken to strengthen disaster response. He noted that the Fire Service is deepening cross-border collaboration with regional and international partners, including Europe and the United States, to enhance its firefighting capacity and equipment supply.
Meanwhile, NDMA Executive Director Ansu Dulleh expressed frustration at what he described as the company’s negligence. Speaking at the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing on Tuesday, Dulleh said Mira Gas had failed to fully comply with safety standards, leading to the tragic incident.
“The explosion exposed more than 30 people, directly affecting 21 workers. Sadly, one person has died, while several others risk losing their sight or mobility,” Dulleh revealed.
He further noted that the facility’s limited space was unsuitable for housing large gas tankers, calling for a thorough investigation and possible prosecution if Mira Gas is found liable.
