Nationwide Crackdown On Illegal Mining Launched

The Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) has launched an aggressive nationwide crackdown on illegal mining operations as part of the government’s renewed commitment to protecting Liberia’s mineral resources and strengthening accountability within the sector.

Speaking during a major press conference in Monrovia, Minister of Mines and Energy, R. Matenokay Tingban, announced a series of new enforcement measures aimed at restoring order and transparency across the country’s mining industry.

Minister Tingban described the initiative as a bold step by the government to ensure that Liberia’s mineral wealth benefits the nation and its citizens through lawful and responsible mining practices.

According to him, illegal mining continues to undermine legitimate investment opportunities, deprive the government of much-needed revenue, and contribute to environmental degradation in several mining communities across Liberia.

He emphasized that the Ministry remains fully committed to the strict enforcement of the Minerals and Mining Law of Liberia and will ensure that all individuals and companies operating in the sector comply with national regulations.

The Minister warned that anyone found engaging in unauthorized mining activities will face arrest, prosecution, and the confiscation of equipment used in illegal operations.

As part of the government’s proactive engagement strategy, the Ministry recently conducted awareness and sensitization campaigns in Penokan Village, Grand Gedeh County, where residents and local mining operators received education on responsible mining practices.

Authorities explained that the outreach campaign was designed to promote sustainable mining activities while encouraging communities to respect Liberia’s mining laws and environmental standards.

The Ministry noted that the awareness initiative forms part of a broader national strategy to create a more organized, transparent, and environmentally responsible mining sector.

In one of the Ministry most significant enforcement operations, authorities ordered the closure of the Alex Gee Group of Companies in Belle-Yallah, Grand Gedeh County, after discovering that the company’s Class B Mining License had expired and was not renewed for the 2025/2026 operating period.

Officials further disclosed that the company allegedly constructed a mineral processing plant without securing the proper authorization required under its previous license arrangement.

Minister Tingban described the closure as a clear demonstration of the government’s determination to enforce mining regulations without fear or favor.

He stressed that the government will no longer tolerate violations that threaten Liberia’s natural resources and compromise the integrity of the mining sector.

In separate enforcement operations conducted across Rivercess, Grand Cape Mount, Lofa, and Grand Gedeh Counties, the Ministry shut down additional illegal mining sites operating outside the law.

Authorities also dismantled several unauthorized dredging operations believed to be contributing to serious environmental damage in rivers and nearby communities.

During the operations, government inspectors and security officers confiscated multiple excavators and other mining equipment being used in unauthorized mining activities.

Officials said the nationwide exercise was carried out in close collaboration with state security agencies as part of a coordinated effort to safeguard Liberia’s mineral wealth and waterways from further destruction.

The Ministry described the operations as a strong signal that the government is serious about protecting Liberia’s natural resources while creating a level playing field for legitimate investors operating within the law.

Minister Tingban has meanwhile called on all Liberians to support the government’s ongoing enforcement campaign by reporting illegal mining activities taking place in their communities.

He stressed that Liberia’s mineral resources must be managed responsibly to ensure long-term economic growth, environmental protection, job creation, and sustainable national development for future generations.