Liberia Defense Minister Brigadier General (Rtd.) Geradline Janet George
NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA – The Ministry of National Defense has renewed its call for the immediate evacuation of all illegal occupants from the Camp Ramrod Military Barracks, popularly known as the 72nd Barracks, in Monrovia.
According to the Ministry, civilians occupying the barracks and surrounding areas without authorization are required to vacate the premises within fourteen (14) days, beginning Monday, January 19, 2026. The move forms part of ongoing efforts to reclaim the facility for legitimate military use.
By: Sampson W Weah – sampsonwweah7@gmail.com
During the voluntary evacuation period, the Engineering Battalion of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) will commence the construction of physical barricades to clearly demarcate the military property.
The Ministry has appealed to the public—particularly those squatting in and around the barracks—to remain calm, cooperate with authorities, and use the clearly marked exit routes.
The Ministry further assured occupants that no personal belongings will be confiscated during the exercise and that no punitive action will be taken against individuals who comply peacefully within the given timeframe.
Camp Ramrod has remained illegally occupied since the end of Liberia’s civil war, and successive administrations have made unsuccessful attempts to recover the property. Authorities say the continued occupation has severely constrained the AFL’s ability to rehabilitate the facility and expand accommodation for newly recruited soldiers and operational units.
Since early 2024, the Ministry of National Defense has held multiple engagements with leaders of the occupants and formally communicated the need for a voluntary evacuation.
In May 2025, a written four-month notice to vacate was issued to allow residents sufficient time to relocate. Despite these efforts, many occupants have remained within the barracks.
Officials disclosed that of the approximately 37 acres of land originally belonging to the military, the AFL currently has access to only 13 acres, which are now being earmarked for renovation and redevelopment.
The Camp Ramrod Military Barracks, also known as the 72nd Barracks, is regarded as strategically vital to national security, given its location and ability to support the rapid deployment of troops in response to emergencies or unrest on the northwestern flank of Monrovia.
In closing, the Ministry emphasized that the 72nd Military Barracks, like all restricted military installations nationwide, is not designated for civilian residence or activities.
Continued civilian presence, the Ministry warned, could endanger lives and disrupt essential military operations.
