Monrovia, Liberia – The Liberia Chamber of Commerce (LCC) has expressed deep condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Mr. Saah Samukai, who tragically lost his life in an industrial accident at Sethi Ferro Fabrik’s oxygen plant.
In a statement issued Tuesday, the Chamber also extended sympathies to the management and staff of Sethi Brothers, acknowledging the emotional and operational toll of the incident.
“We take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt support to all those affected by this tragedy,” the LCC said.
The Chamber praised Sethi Brothers for its contributions to Liberia’s healthcare sector, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. It recalled that when the government called on the private sector for assistance, the company provided free oxygen supplies to medical facilities nationwide, a practice it continued even after the pandemic subsided. Institutions such as Redemption Hospital and JFK Medical Center have benefited from the company’s ongoing generosity.
“It is deeply unfortunate that this tragic event occurred while the company was engaged in such benevolent activities,” the LCC stated.
The Chamber noted that Sethi Brothers’ management has assured that all necessary measures, including insurance benefits and compensatory arrangements, are being handled in accordance with legal and corporate obligations.
While acknowledging the rarity of industrial accidents, the LCC urged government regulators to take a balanced approach when responding to such incidents.
“Safety in industrial and manufacturing operations must always remain a top priority,” the statement read, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to both international and local safety standards.
However, the LCC cautioned against any regulatory action that could result in an unwarranted shutdown of the oxygen plant.
“The oxygen plant operated by Sethi Brothers has functioned for many years without such an incident, and this tragedy, while deeply regrettable, represents an isolated event. A hasty decision to suspend operations could have significant economic consequences, including job losses for hundreds of employees who depend on the company for their livelihoods,” the Chamber warned.
The LCC reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside the government and relevant authorities to investigate the accident, strengthen safety regulations, and prevent future occurrences.
“Once again, the Chamber expresses its deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Saah Samukai and affirms its commitment to working alongside the affected company and relevant authorities to uphold the highest standards of industrial operations in Liberia,” the statement concluded.
