The Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) has announced a planned one-day demolition of Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) near the Edward Binyah Kesselly (EBK) Military Barracks, scheduled for Wednesday, July 23, 2025, from 8:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.
In a public service announcement issued Monday, the AFL confirmed that its Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, under the 21st Engineer Battalion, will carry out the operation as part of ongoing efforts to rid Liberia of hazardous remnants of war. The stockpile, consisting of UXOs collected from various regions, poses a long-term risk to public safety if not properly neutralized.
The demolition will take place in a controlled environment within the vicinity of the EBK Barracks, a military installation located near several residential communities including Boys Town, Schiefflin, and Duazon. The public has been advised not to be alarmed by the loud explosions expected during the six-hour exercise.
In a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Stephen T. Tarplah, Chief of Public Affairs for the Armed Forces of Liberia, the AFL emphasized that there is no immediate danger to the public, and all necessary
“This demolition process is vital for ensuring community safety and clearing potentially dangerous Unexploded Ordnances from isolated and habitable communities within Liberia,” the statement read.
To ensure the safety of civilians, particularly in areas adjacent to the blast zone, the AFL has urged fishermen and residents of the EBK Military Barracks to avoid the nearby lagoon between 8:00 A.M. and 2:00 P.M. on the day of the operation.
Motorists and commuters traveling along the Roberts International Airport (RIA) highway are also advised to remain calm and proceed with caution if they hear loud explosive sounds, which may be audible throughout the surrounding communities.
UXOs, which include unexploded bombs, shells, grenades, and other military munitions left behind from past conflicts, remain a significant threat in post-conflict environments. Liberia, having endured prolonged civil unrest from 1989 to 2003, continues to face challenges in clearing these dangerous materials.
The AFL’s EOD unit has been engaged in nationwide clearance efforts over the years in coordination with international partners. These operations are essential to preventing accidental detonations, injuries, or deaths, particularly in rural and underdeveloped areas where residents may unknowingly come into contact with UXOs.
Wednesday’s planned demolition signifies the AFL’s continued commitment to public safety and national security through the responsible disposal of hazardous military materials.
The Armed Forces is encouraging citizens to report any suspicious or unfamiliar metal objects found in their communities to the nearest authorities or military outposts.For more information or emergency inquiries, residents can contact the AFL Public Affairs office.
