The Land Dispute – Liberia news The New Dawn Liberia, premier resource for latest news

Japanese Freeway, July 20, 2026: Normal commercial activities along the Japanese Freeway, a major route leading to the commercial city of Paynesville, Red Light, came to a halt Saturday after residents of the Battery Factory Community resisted a demolition exercise.

The demolition was being carried out by a private family claiming ownership of more than 85 acres of land stretching from Logan Town to New Georgia.

During the incident on July 18, residents set up roadblocks, burned tires, and threw stones at police officers who had arrived to provide security for the demolition. Their actions led to an immediate halt to economic activities and caused major traffic congestion. Several police officers and residents were reported injured.

Williams James, a resident, told reporters at the scene that a woman had repeatedly visited their community, claimed ownership of the entire land, and challenged the residents’ claims to the property.

He said this was the third time the woman had sought possession of the land. On her previous visit, the matter was taken to court, and the community secured legal representation, but the case was postponed. He expressed surprise that the demolition proceeded without prior notice from the court.

“There is this lady who claims this entire area belongs to her family, particularly her father, from Logan Town all the way to Red Light. The matter was in court, but she proceeded with demolition without informing the community of the court’s decision. We will not allow this. Our families have lived here for generations,” he added.

Jacqueline Massaquoi, another resident, called on the Liberian government to investigate the family’s ownership claims, arguing that it was impossible for one family to own such a vast area.

Calm was later restored to the area and normal business activities have resumed.