Raid on health centre in Monrovia, Liberia may spread Ebola

Liberian officials fear Ebola could soon spread through Monrovia's largest slum after residents raided a quarantine centre for suspected patients and took items including blood-stained sheets and mattresses.

The violence in the West Point slum late on Saturday was led by residents angry that patients were brought from other parts of the capital to the centre, Tolbert Nyenswah, assistant health minister, said yesterday.

A witness said armed men claiming that "there's no Ebola" in Liberia raided the centre, prompting at least 20 patients infected with the virus to flee.

"They broke down the door and looted the place. The patients have all gone," said Rebecca Wesseh, who witnessed the attack and whose report was confirmed by residents.

West Point residents went on a "looting spree", stealing items from the clinic that were likely infected, said a senior police official. The looters took mattresses, sheets and blankets that had bloodstains, which could spread the infection.

Police restored order to the West Point neighbourhood, home to some 100,000 poor Liberians. Health officials say they fear the looting incident will spread Ebola infections in the capital.