U.S. Fire Chiefs Arrive in Liberia to Investigate Capitol Building Fire
The Liberia National Fire Service will receive assistance from three former U.S. fire chiefs in investigating a fire that severely damaged the Capitol Building months ago. Initial findings suggest arson, and calls for transparency have led to this formal request for international expertise. The U.S. delegation aims to assist in the investigation while also strengthening fire safety protocols in Liberia.
Monrovia—The Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS) has announced it will receive assistance from three former U.S. fire chiefs who will arrive this Friday to aid in the investigation of a significant fire that affected the Capitol Building months ago. According to G. Warsuwah Barvoul, LNFS Director, these experts will contribute their skills to address the serious concerns surrounding the cause of the blaze.
As investigations have suggested a deliberate act, many citizens are calling for an unbiased and thorough inquiry. The fire destroyed the seat of the National Legislature, leading to widespread shock and demands for accountability. Initial findings from local law enforcement revealed multiple ignition points and a flammable substance, hinting at arson rather than accidental causes.
Inspector General of the Liberia National Police (LNP), Gregory Coleman, has confirmed that electrical faults were ruled out, stating that the electrical grid was operational during the incident. He emphasized, “This was no accident,” reinforcing public suspicions regarding the fire’s origin. The tragic incident has incited demands for justice and a comprehensive investigation.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Fonati Koffa, has been particularly vocal in advocating for transparency and thoroughness in the investigation. Following the announcement of the investigation’s progress, Koffa urged the Liberian government to enlist international expertise for a fair examination, especially as he was named a person of interest in the probe.
The Liberian government officially requested assistance from seasoned U.S. fire safety experts. The delegation includes former fire chiefs Kenneth Prillaman, Mark Lynde, and Jerry Streich, who collectively hold over 90 years of experience in fire safety and emergency management. They have been asked to assess the Capitol Building site, examine evidence, and provide insights on fire prevention measures.
Prillaman expressed his team’s readiness to support Liberia, stating, “We are honored to lend our expertise in support of the Liberian government. Our goal is to conduct a thorough investigation, share best practices, and strengthen fire safety protocols to protect critical infrastructure.” The team will collaborate with local authorities to conduct further investigations and potentially uncover any previously overlooked evidence.
Upon completion of their work, the experts will offer recommendations and submit a report to the Liberian government, which will assist in prosecuting those responsible and improving fire safety measures across the country.
The arrival of U.S. fire chiefs to assist in investigating the Capitol fire highlights the seriousness of the incident and the commitment to uncovering the truth. The collaborative efforts between the U.S. experts and Liberian authorities aim not only to seek justice but also to enhance future fire safety protocols in Liberia. With growing public demand for transparency, the investigation represents a critical step towards accountability and improvements in infrastructure safety.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
