By: Matalay S. Kollie
Bong County authorities have launched a major crackdown on illegal mining activities in the county’s fourth district, Zota, targeting Burkinabe nationals operating unlawfully in the region. The operation, spearheaded by Superintendent Loleyah Hawa Norris, follows the discovery of multiple illegal mining sites on Sunday, May 4, 2025.
Local authorities were initially dispatched to Zota to mediate a land dispute between indigenous miners and H&K Mining Company, a Chinese mining entity operating in the area. During the intervention, officials uncovered several illegal mining sites believed to be operated by Burkinabe nationals.
Superintendent Norris emphasized that these operations were conducted without the consent of local leadership, raising serious concerns about oversight and the legal status of foreign nationals in the mining sector.
Despite their illegal activities, reports from the Liberia Immigration Service indicate that the Burkinabe miners entered the country with valid documentation. This revelation has sparked questions about regulatory gaps and the effectiveness of enforcement mechanisms governing mining operations by foreign nationals.
Authorities have arrested two individuals identified as Harouna Ouedalaogo, 44, and Barchezu Sone, 42, both suspected to be key figures in the illegal mining network. The suspects have been turned over to police for further investigation.
In addition to the arrests, law enforcement seized hazardous chemicals and documents believed to be linked to other individuals involved in the operations. The confiscated materials are expected to play a crucial role in ongoing investigations.
Superintendent Norris and Bong County Attorney Jonathan Flomo expressed deep concern over the environmental and health risks posed by the use of toxic chemicals, particularly mercury, by the illegal miners. They warned that these substances could contaminate local water sources and endanger the health of nearby communities.
“The situation is alarming,” said Attorney Flomo. “The use of mercury and other dangerous chemicals poses a severe threat to both the environment and the lives of our people.”
In response to the growing threat, Bong County leaders are appealing to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other national institutions to intervene urgently. They are pushing for stronger oversight and enforcement measures to combat illegal mining and protect Liberia’s natural resources.
Local authorities have vowed to continue their crackdown and are intensifying efforts to dismantle the networks behind illegal mining. The recent arrests signal a firm stance against unauthorized operations and a broader commitment to safeguarding the environment and the well-being of Bong County residents.
