Monrovia, Liberia—The Liberia Electrical Regulatory Commission (LERC) has been made aware of at least two recent deadly occurrences that took place within Jungle Energy Power’s (JEP) electrical distribution networks in Gbarnga, Bong County. The Commission is taking these situations very seriously and has started investigations in compliance with relevant legislation to ascertain their causes and guarantee the execution of actions meant to stop similar incidents and protect public safety.
In the spirit of openness, responsibility, and public trust, LERC guarantees the public that the results and conclusions of the investigations will be published. On Sunday, May 17, 2026, a fire broke out in the Chief Compound Community, Gbarnga City, Bong County, which is part of Jungle Energy Power’s (JEP) licensed distribution network.
This was reported by the Investigative Bong Eye Newspaper and a number of individual journalists. Two 33 kV distribution lines were reportedly severed as a result of a loud explosion that was thought to have come from a transformer station inside the impacted hamlet. Two children are said to have died tragically as a result of the incident, which also damaged other residential homes owned by clients who lived in the impacted neighborhood.
Within the allotted regulatory timeframe, the commission has asked JEP Management to promptly submit a thorough incident report outlining the incident’s circumstances, including the likely cause, the extent of the damages, the remedial actions taken, and the suggested preventative measures. On Sunday, May 17, 2026, a fire broke out in the Chief Compound Community, Gbarnga City, Bong County, which is part of Jungle Energy Power’s (JEP) licensed distribution network.
Hon. Claude J. Katta, the Chairman of the Board of Commissioners (BoC), offers his “deepest condolences to the bereaved families and all those affected by this tragic incident.” The Commission continues to be dedicated to guaranteeing complete responsibility, rigorous regulatory compliance, and the protection of electrical consumers and the general public across Liberia, and it takes public safety issues very seriously.
The Commission issues a warning to all licensed electrical providers nationwide to adhere to specified safety, operational, and maintenance criteria. Utilities are reminded of their responsibility to take all necessary precautions to protect consumers’ and the public’s lives and property.
Reported by: Prince Saah
