By Ben TC Brooks
River Gee County – [August 1, 2025] – Superintendent Mike T. Swengbe has taken a decisive step to halt the unlawful activities of foreign nationals, believed to be Burkinabes, who are operating in River Gee County without work permits or authorization.
According to the superintendent, his action comes in response to increasing concerns from local residents and authorities about the unregulated actions of Burkinabe nationals within the county.
In an interview with Verity Online News, Superintendent Swengbe reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining law and order in River Gee.
He emphasized that these unauthorized activities pose a threat not only to the local economy but also to the safety and security of the community. “We cannot allow these illegal actions by Burkinabes to undermine the efforts and livelihoods of our people,” he stated.
He acknowledged that while the Liberian government has permitted the registration of Burkinabes, the country’s forests or agricultural lands requires the appropriate work permits.
“I want to clarify that I, Mike T. Swengbe, have no issue with foreign nationals in our county. What we want is for them to obtain the necessary documentation from Liberian authorities. Those without work permits should be barred from engaging in farming activities on our land,” he emphasized during a visit aimed at confronting the illegal activities of Burkinabes individuals in Potupo Jayproken.
Swengbe warned those who host Burkinabes in their communities without confirming they possess work permits, they could face legal repercussions for facilitating unauthorized work, particularly in cocoa farming and other agricultural sectors.
Recently, the superintendent ordered the arrest of Clan Chief Johnny K. Nowinine by the Liberia National Police for allegedly supporting the illegal activities involving Burkinabes in the Potupo district; but was subsequently released after handing over the involved parties.
The head of the county alleged that the rising land disputes in the county and across the nation are partly fueled by the presence of Burkinabes in border regions, prompting him to raise awareness about illegal land use through visits to various districts, towns, and villages.
He said the intervention is a response to multiple complaints from locals regarding the adverse effects of these activities on their environment and daily lives. Reports indicate that Burkinabe nationals have been engaged in operations without proper permits, leading to disorder and potential resource exploitation in River Gee County.
However, most community leaders have voiced their support for Superintendent Swengbe’s actions, stressing the need to protect their land and resources from illegal exploitation. Local chief Mark Sampson of Nyantianbo Wissitoken remarked, “We support the superintendent’s decision. It is critical for the future of our communities that we uphold the law and ensure fair practices for everyone.”
In the coming days, Swengbe plans to work closely with law enforcement to investigate further and establish stricter regulations to prevent similar occurrences in the county. His proactive measures aim to foster a safer and more sustainable environment for the residents of River Gee.
Meanwhile, Commander Peter Vahamba of the Liberia Immigration Service’s River Gee County detachment confirmed that the registration of Burkinabes in the county has ended base on deadline, but did not reveal the number of registrants, citing his lack of authority to disclose the information. Sources, however, indicate that more than 5,000 Burkinabes have been recorded in River Gee County.
As local government navigates these challenges, residents express hope that Superintendent Swengbe’s efforts will restore order and protect their natural resources from illegal exploitation.
