Johnsonville Residents Live In Danger, As Disadvantaged Youths Allegedly Pose Security Threat

By: Kerper M Soclor 

Several residents of the Greenland Community in Johnsonville have alarmed over continuous wave of criminal activities and harassment by over 100 disadvantaged youths who were recently relocated in the area by the Government of Liberia for rehabilitation.

It can be recalled that the Liberian Government relocated over 100 disadvantaged youths commonly known as zogos, to the Liberia Refugees, Repatriation and Reintegration Commission (LRRRC) Compound in the Community as part of ongoing effort to rehabilitate them from drug abuse.

The residents alleged that since their arrival, these disadvantaged young people there has been increase in criminal activities including armed robbery, stealing, and harassment, thereby making them to live in perpetual fear and insecurity.

In an interview with our reporter over the weekend, the Chairperson of the Greenland community, Victoria Morris said since the government decision to locate these youths mostly drug users at the LRRC Compound, the community has become hideouts for criminal activities.

Madam Morris said on numerous occasions, they have received complaints from residents about harassment.

According to her, the community has never experienced this growing wave of criminal activities prior to the arrival of these disadvantaged youths. She expressed frustration that relevant government institutions are yet to put in place concrete actions to protect the community and its dwellers.

Also speaking, the Head of the Community Watch Forum, Willie Yekeh said, members of the community watch Forum have been attacked several times while serving guide during the night

“Those guys move at night with cutlasses, knifes, sticks, teargas and other deadly weapons. They harass our citizens as well as motorcyclists. They are in numbers; even those who escaped from the camp can come during the night hours to do the harassment. We do not have Rain gear, touch lights, ID card and other essential materials “he noted,” Mr. Yekeh said.

According to him, lack of rain gear, touch light, manpower and other essential materials are challenges faced by the group.

Mr. Jonathan Chippy, Spokesman  said why the Community welcomes National Government’s decision to fight drugs and substance abuse in Liberia, it should not use the community as a sacrificial lamb for criminals.

“Our community that once used to be lively and safe during night hours has become a no go zone during these hours. I have witnessed on two to three occasions were citizens have been harassed in my present during night hours and motorbikes stolen but could not do nothing because of weapons they are carrying. We are therefore calling on President Joseph N. Boakai Sr and everyone involved with the fight against drugs and substance abuse to intervene. Our lives are at risk and we cannot compromise our security,” Mr. Chippy concluded.

Mr. Bobby R. Abel, One of the victims who was seen with bruises on his body alleged that he was attacked by a group of disadvantaged youths while trying to rescue a child reportedly being harassed by these gangs.

He further alleged that the criminals usually move with knives, cutlasses, and sticks, putting peaceful citizens at risk.  He said if relevant government institutions do not take swift action to address the situation, they will be left with no option but to take matters into own hands to protect themselves.