GRAND BASSA COUNTY, LIBERIA—The Minister of Mines and Energy, Matenokay Tingban, has strongly condemned all forms of illicit and illegal mining activities across Liberia, describing them as clear violations of the country’s Minerals and Mining Law.

In a telephone conversation with the Ministry’s compliance enforcement team currently in the field, the Minister warned that stronger measures will continue to be enforced to identify and prosecute those involved in unauthorized mining operations.

Minister Tingban emphasized that illegal mining poses serious threats to environmental sustainability and national development.

He assured that perpetrators will be located and brought before the law as part of ongoing efforts to curb unlawful practices in the mining sector.

The enforcement team is presently monitoring mining activities nationwide, with particular attention on Class “C” license holders to ensure compliance with legal and environmental standards.

The Minister also urged the Inspector-General of the Ministry of Mines and Energy, Agatius Blojay Coker, and his team to strictly enforce the law without fear or favor.

He stressed that no individual or group without proper mineral rights should be allowed to operate within the mining sector, adding that professionalism and integrity must guide the work of inspectors in the field.

Meanwhile, the Ministry’s Senior Management Team is preparing to participate in the 2026 Mining Indaba Global Conference in South Africa, where Liberia’s mineral potential will be presented to the international community.

The conference is expected to attract global investors and stakeholders in the mining industry.

Despite these international engagements, the Ministry has ensured the continuation of inspection activities in southeastern Liberia.

The ongoing national inspection tour is being led by Inspector-General Coker, supported by experienced Ministry staff and members of the National Joint Security, as part of efforts to strengthen mineral sector governance and promote responsible mining practices nationwide.