Published: September 17, 2025
BUCHANAN, Grand Bassa County — What some Buchanan residents initially believed to be a crude oil discovery turned out to be a leaking fuel tanker belonging to missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, church officials confirmed Tuesday.
The missionaries said the tanker, stored on their Preston Street compound for operational use, had recently developed a leak. Their statement followed hours of speculation that a secret fuel depot was operating in the city. Local officials later confirmed that no licensed fuel storage facility exists in Grand Bassa County.
The leak, which began at dawn, drew dozens of residents who rushed to collect the gasoline in buckets and jerrycans. Some said they planned to resell the fuel to help pay for school fees for the 2025–2026 academic year.
The Grand Bassa detachment of the Liberia National Police, led by Commander Williams Johnson, secured the area with support from other security agencies. Authorities warned of potential hazards and said they are monitoring the site for public safety.
The church acknowledged the spill but has not disclosed the amount of fuel lost.
So far, no injuries have been reported. Local officials are assessing risks and working to contain the remaining fuel to prevent further leaks.
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