Illicit Mining Intensifies in Bong County

Bong County – Alleged illicit miners, who are suspected to be Ghanian operating in Gou and surrounding towns in Meinquelleh Clan in Sanoyea District, Bong County, risk arrest following a mandate issued recently by the acting county superintendent, Anthony Boakai Sheriff, and Representative Robert Flomo Womba.

Currently, the illicit miners have spread equipment in the entire river from Gou, Gbansue-Suloma, and Jalaywah without approval from the Ministry of Lands Mines and Energy and the Liberia Revenue Authority, and other relevant government agencies charged with mining activities in the country.

Illegal mining is a major source of livelihood for hundreds of residents in the area, where the crime rate has increased rapidly.

The decision to shut down the mining site was reached recently at a meeting initiated by the Bong County acting superintendent, along with representative Womba after scores of residents complained about illegal activities.

Representative Womba said it will be important that all mining activities in the area are stopped and that those involved be invited to provide all documents mandating them to conduct the activities.

Constant mining activities across the county by foreigners has claimed the attention of people in Bong County including the Electoral District #4 lawmaker.

At the meeting, it was disclosed that the Ghanaian miners are allegedly mining gold illegally on the banks of the St. Paul River.

Representative Womba pointed out that under his watch as a lawmaker of Zota, Panta, and Meinquelleh, he would ensure that the needed benefits for the citizens are addressed by the mining company.

Report By: Emmanuel Mafelah In Bong County