Published: February 13, 2025
Monrovia – The Director-General of the Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS), G. Warsuwah Barvoul Sr., has strongly denied activist Martin K. N. Kollie’s claim that 650 gallons of fuel were stolen from the agency’s warehouse.
In a Facebook post on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, Kollie alleged that the fuel had gone missing and demanded that Barvoul publicly address the issue.
“We give LNFS Director Warsuwah Barvoul until 12 noon today to inform the nation, or else we will upload the documents,” Kollie warned.
However, hours later, Barvoul dismissed the accusation as false and misleading.
“Let me be clear—there is no record of corruption at the Liberia National Fire Service, as claimed by Mr. Kollie,” he stated, challenging Kollie to present evidence and cautioning the public against believing unverified claims.
Confirmed Case: Theft of a Fuel Coupon in October 2024
While denying the alleged theft of 650 gallons, Barvoul acknowledged that an internal investigation in October 2024 uncovered a separate case of fuel coupon theft involving LNFS’s Chief of Procurement, Col. Korpoh S. Morris.
“We did discover a missing coupon for 2,190 gallons of fuel last year. Once informed, we took immediate action and referred the matter to the Professional Standard Division (PSD),” he disclosed.
Following the investigation, the LNFS Board recommended administrative action against Morris in accordance with the agency’s Code of Conduct and the Civil Service Standing Order.
“That action was taken. Col. Morris was officially notified, as shown in this letter,” Barvoul said, displaying the document.
He revealed that Morris admitted to the theft in writing, pleaded for leniency, and proposed to reimburse the stolen amount by paying $100 per month.
“That’s the case we are aware of,” he emphasized. “We’ve taken measures to ensure it doesn’t happen again.”
LNFS Rejects Allegations of Fuel Storage on Its Premises
Col. Jones K. Cooper, Chief of the Professional Standard Division, also refuted suggestions that LNFS stores fuel on its premises.
“Let me clarify—LNFS does not keep gasoline or other flammable materials here,” he stated. “Martin needs to understand that storing fuel at a fire service facility would be highly dangerous.”
Cooper questioned the credibility of Kollie’s allegations, stressing that LNFS is responsible for educating the public about fire hazards and would not engage in unsafe storage practices.
Legal and Administrative Actions Against Fuel Theft
Cooper cited Sections 6.1 and 7.17 of the LNFS Code of Conduct, which require employees to safeguard institutional assets, emphasizing that those who fail in this duty are held accountable for any losses or damages.
“In addition to reimbursing the stolen amount, the administration has the authority to impose further disciplinary actions,” Cooper asserted.
Barvoul Calls for Responsible Information Sharing
Director Barvoul warned against misinformation, stating that unverified claims could mislead the public and damage the institution’s reputation.
“When you work for the public, there will always be individuals trying to tarnish your image,” he noted.
He encouraged anyone, including Kollie, to seek clarification from LNFS officials before making public accusations.
“Our doors are open. Instead of spreading false information, people should engage us for the facts,” he said.
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