GBARPOLU COUNTY, LIBERIA-Mines and Energy Minister Matenokay Tingban has temporarily shut down the mining operations of AB Conteh Mining Company in Bopolu District, Gbarpolu County.
This followed concerns over the handling and reporting of minerals extracted from the site.
According to Minister Tingban, the shutdown is intended to allow the Ministry of Mines and Energy to conduct a full investigation into the company’s activities and determine whether proper procedures and regulations were being followed.
He said,” The government remains committed to ensuring that Liberia’s natural resources benefit the country and its citizens”.
The Minister stressed that all mining companies operating in Liberia must comply with national mining laws, maintain transparency in their operations, and properly declare all minerals being extracted.
The Ministry says operations at the site will remain suspended until the investigation is completed and the company meets all legal requirements.
Meanwhile, the temporary closure highlights the government’s growing effort to strengthen oversight within Liberia’s mining sector and prevent illegal or unregulated exploitation of the country’s mineral resources.
At the same time, the Ministry of Mines and Energy has arrested five Burkinabè nationals during an inspection of illegal mining activities in Bopolu District, following the temporary shutdown of the AB Conteh Mining site.
Touring the County, the individuals were apprehended during a surprise operation led by officials of the Ministry of Mines and Energy after authorities allegedly discovered unauthorized mining activities and suspicious handling of minerals extracted from the area.
Mines and Energy Minister Matenokay Tingban said,” The government will not tolerate illegal mining or violations of Liberia’s mineral laws, especially by individuals and companies operating outside approved regulations”.
He emphasized that the ministry is intensifying efforts to protect the country’s natural resources from exploitation and smuggling.
The arrested individuals are currently under investigation as authorities work to determine their level of involvement, and equipment found at the site has also reportedly been seized as part of the ongoing investigation.
Residents in Bopolu District have praised the ministry’s action, calling it a strong step toward restoring order and accountability in the mining sector.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Mines and Energy says further actions will be taken against anyone found violating Liberia’s mining regulations.