By: Emmanuel Koffa
Residents of Gbalakpo Clan have strongly rejected what they described as unlawful mining activities taking place within their communities, warning individuals or companies involved to immediately desist or risk unspecified action from the community.
Their statement followed the secret entry of excavators into Filorken in recent days, which sparked widespread alarm among citizens of the clan.
Gbalakpo Clan comprises nine communities: Joeploken, Wutuken, Setor, Otiken, Filorken, Tutuken, Druator, Garwin, and Kanwieken.
Speaking on a local radio talk show, several residents expressed outrage over the unauthorized movement of heavy mining machines into their area without prior notice or consultation.
“We woke up and saw excavators in our forest without any explanation. This is completely wrong,” Wilfred Nyeswah, a resident of Filorken said.
“Whoever brought these machines here must come forward. Until the owner is identified, those excavators will remain parked.” Gabriel Wesseh, another resident emphasized that the people of Gbalakpo Clan will not tolerate illegal exploitation of their land.
“We are sending a clear message: desist now. If you continue these illicit mining activities, the community will take appropriate action,” he warned.
They stressed that no individual, group, or company has been introduced or authorized to conduct mining in the area, and therefore the sudden movement of equipment is considered a violation.
But reacting to the concerns, Barclayville Mining Agent- Suku Dosla confirmed that the Ministry of Mines and Energy is aware of the situation.
“We are calling on the residents to remain calm,” Dosla said.
“The matter has reached the Ministry, and negotiations are ongoing with the relevant authorities to establish the facts.”
He assured citizens that the government will take the necessary steps to address the issue in accordance with the law.
However, residents of Gbalakpo Clan have meanwhile vowed to remain vigilant as they await an official explanation.