By Patrick Teah Jr.
Residents of Gbetao in Picnicess District are expressing concern over the increasing presence of Burkinabé nationals in the area, amid allegations that sections of community land are being cleared without the knowledge or consent of many local residents.
Speaking to Verity News on June 13, 2026, the Clan Chief of Klakpo Clan, Chief Togba Barseh, said the growing activities of the Burkinabé nationals have raised questions within the community.
According to Chief Barseh, while some residents are aware of their presence, many community members and local authorities remain uninformed about the extent of their activities.
The chief said the situation has created uncertainty and concern among residents, leading to an indoor meeting involving community representatives, Burkinabé nationals, and officers of the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS). However, he noted that the meeting ended without any major decisions because several key stakeholders were absent.
“Our land is being cleared, and many of us are not informed,” Chief Barseh alleged. He warned that the situation could lead to disputes over land ownership and land use if not properly addressed.
The concerns bring back memories of an incident in November 2025, when the Liberia Immigration Service in Grand Kru deported 20 Burkinabé nationals for allegedly lacking valid immigration documents.
At the time, local authorities in Gbetao acknowledged inviting the individuals into the area to engage in farming and other agricultural activities. Community leaders said the decision was made because local farmers were unable to cultivate all available farmland.
“We are not able to farm all the land ourselves, so we invited them to assist with agricultural activities,” local officials reportedly stated at the time.
During Verity News’ visit, one town chief in Picnicess declined to comment, saying he had not been authorized to speak to the media on the matter.
Meanwhile, sources within the community claim that about 20 Burkinabé nationals are currently residing in Gbetao, while more than 15 others reportedly arrived recently. The same sources allege that forest-clearing activities are taking place along the Barclayville-Picnicess road corridor.
A meeting to address the matter was held in Picnicess on June 13, but participants said it ended without a resolution because several government officials did not attend.
Officials of the Liberia Immigration Service in Grand Kru also declined to comment, citing an ongoing investigation.
As of press time, county authorities had not issued an official statement on the concerns raised by residents. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
