By Taisiah Merfee
MONROVIA — An oxygen tank explosion at MIRA Gas Company near the Cemenco compound in the Freeport Community has left several workers injured and prompted an immediate emergency response.
The incident occurred Monday afternoon, sending shockwaves through the industrial area and raising fresh concerns about workplace safety.
Speaking to reporters at the scene, Edwin Tisdell, Deputy Director of Operations at the Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS), confirmed that seven people were injured and taken to the John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital for treatment. However, conflicting accounts from a company employee suggest the number of injured could be as high as 16, with initial treatment provided at the Mawah Clinic in Vai Town before some were transferred to JFK.
Health and Safety Manager at MIRA Gas, Mr. Morgan Zogar, described the scene as chaotic and distressing. “When I got here shortly after the explosion, the place was in disarray. We immediately called the fire service and other security agencies for support,” Zogar said.
He confirmed that the injured are now receiving treatment across multiple health facilities in Monrovia and noted that no fatalities have been reported.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the explosion. Fire service personnel, alongside safety inspectors, were still on site late Monday assessing the damage and collecting evidence.
The explosion has shaken the surrounding Freeport community, with residents and workers in neighboring facilities expressing concern over safety standards in the area.
As the investigation unfolds, the public and affected families are awaiting further updates on the condition of the injured workers and any potential findings regarding safety violations or equipment failure.
