Published: May 20, 2026
MONROVIA — Liberia’s electricity regulator has opened a formal investigation into at least two fatal incidents within the distribution network of Jungle Energy Power in Gbarnga, Bong County, after a fire and explosion killed two children and damaged several homes in the Chief Compound Community on Sunday.
The Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission confirmed Monday that it is treating the incidents with the utmost seriousness and has commenced investigations in accordance with applicable regulations to determine their causes and ensure measures are put in place to prevent similar occurrences.
According to reports, the fire on May 17 involved the severing of two 33 kV distribution lines following a loud explosion believed to have originated from a transformer station located within the affected community. Two children were killed and a number of residential properties belonging to customers in the area were damaged.
LERC has directed Jungle Energy Power management to submit a comprehensive incident report within the prescribed regulatory timeframe, detailing the circumstances surrounding the fire, its probable cause, the extent of damages, remedial actions already undertaken and measures proposed to prevent a recurrence.
Board of Commissioners Chairman Claude J. Katta extended condolences to the families of the two children and to all those affected by what he described as a tragic incident. “The Commission views matters affecting public safety with the highest level of concern and remains committed to ensuring full accountability, strict regulatory compliance, and the protection of electricity consumers and the public across Liberia,” Katta said.
The commission said the findings and outcomes of the investigation will be made public in the interest of transparency, accountability and public confidence.
Beyond the immediate investigation, LERC used the occasion to issue a broader warning to all licensed electricity operators across the country, reminding them of their legal obligation to comply with established safety, operational and maintenance standards and to take all necessary preventive measures to safeguard the lives and property of their customers and the general public.
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