Barclay Training Center, Monrovia (January 21, 2026) — The Ministry of National Defense has renewed its directive for the immediate removal of all unauthorized occupants from Camp Ramrod Military Barracks, commonly known as the 72nd Barracks, underscoring the site’s critical role in Liberia’s national security architecture.
The Ministry has called on civilians unlawfully residing within and around the barracks to vacate the area within fourteen (14) days, effective Monday, January 19, 2026. The evacuation is described as voluntary but mandatory, and residents have been urged to comply promptly and peacefully.
During the evacuation period, the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) Engineering Battalion will begin the construction of physical barriers to clearly demarcate military property. Authorities have appealed to the public—particularly individuals squatting in and around the barracks—to remain calm, cooperate fully with security personnel, and use designated exit routes. The Ministry has assured occupants that no personal belongings will be seized and that no punitive measures will be taken against those who evacuate within the stipulated timeframe.
Camp Ramrod has been illegally occupied since the end of Liberia’s civil war, despite repeated efforts by successive administrations to reclaim the facility. According to the Ministry, the prolonged occupation has severely limited the AFL’s capacity to rehabilitate the barracks and expand accommodation for newly recruited soldiers and operational units.
The Ministry disclosed that since early 2024, it has engaged repeatedly with representatives of the occupants, clearly communicating the need for voluntary evacuation. In addition to these consultations, a formal four-month notice to vacate was issued in May 2025 to allow sufficient time for orderly relocation. Despite these measures and what the Ministry describes as ample notice, the occupants have remained on the premises.
Officials further revealed that of the thirty-seven (37) acres of land currently under illegal occupation, the AFL retains access to only thirteen (13) acres, which have been earmarked for renovation and redevelopment.
The Camp Ramrod Military Barracks, also referred to as the 72nd Barracks, is considered strategically vital to Liberia’s security. The facility plays a key role in enabling rapid military response to potential unrest or emergencies, particularly along the northwestern corridor of Monrovia.
In reiterating its position, the Ministry of National Defense emphasized that the 72nd Military Barracks—like all restricted military zones—is not designated for civilian habitation or commercial activity. Authorities warned that continued civilian presence not only poses safety risks but also disrupts essential military operations critical to national defense.
