MONROVIA, LIBERIA-The Mines and Energy Ministry have shut down all illegal mining activities of Rhode Mining Incorporated in Needonwin Town, Gbi, and Doru District in Lower Nimba, and Central Rivercess Counties.

According to a recent release, a ministry technical team discovered that Rhode Mining Incorporated violated the terms and conditions of its exploration license by carrying out illicit mining.

The release said the move is intended to keep mining companies and holders of exploration licenses in compliance with the Mineral and Mining Law of 2000, and the Regulations Governing Exploration.

The ministry said that all mining institutions set up by Rhode Mining Incorporated have been ordered closed through a rigorous enforcement effort led by the Inspectorate Division and the Bureau of Mines, with support from state security agencies.

The Mines and Energy Ministry has also confiscated mining equipment, including washing plants, generators, supreme gold carpets, field water pumps, and hoses, among other contraband items belonging to the company.

By: Frederick Teegwiah, Jr.