The abandoned BHP Billiton exploration camp in Garmu Town, Panta District #4, Bong County, is rapidly disappearing as unidentified individuals dismantle its structures, reviving painful memories of a mining project that many residents say, delivered more questions than lasting benefits. What was once a bustling exploration site has now become a symbol of neglect. Shipping containers, camp buildings and other valuable materials are reportedly being removed without any public explanation, while government authorities remain silent over, who authorized the dismantling. Residents who spoke to The In Profile Daily News expressed frustration that years after BHP Billiton left Liberia, the company’s presence is remembered not for sustained community development, but for an abandoned facility now being stripped apart before the eyes of the locals. BHP entered Liberia in 2010, under a Mineral Development Agreement to explore for iron ore, including the one in Bong County. After completing its exploration activities, the company exited and transferred its exploration assets and mineral rights to Cavalla Resources in 2015. That transfer later became controversial after the House of Representatives, reportedly argued that it lacked the legislative approval required by law. The company also faced longstanding allegations that it failed to fully meet its Social Development Fund commitments to Bong. Although, those concerns were repeatedly raised during and after BHP’s operations, many residents say, they have never received satisfactory answers regarding the benefits promised to affected communities. Now, the dismantling of the abandoned camp has brought those unresolved issues back into the national spotlight. Community members argue that the situation reflects not only unanswered questions surrounding BHP’s legacy, but also government’s failure to ensure proper oversight of abandoned mining properties. Residents expressed say, disappointment that no public institution has stepped forward to explain whether the removal of materials is legal, or who now owns the property. They believe the continued silence risks encouraging further uncertainty over valuable assets left behind by foreign investors.
Despite repeated efforts by The In Profile Daily News to obtain comments, neither local authorities nor relevant government agencies had issued an official statement at the time of publication.
As the abandoned structures continue to disappear, residents have demanded a full investigation into the dismantling of the former BHP camp, and renewed scrutiny of the unresolved issues surrounding the company’s operations.
For many in Garmu Town, the abandoned camp is more than a deserted mining site; it remains a lasting reminder that the promises associated with major investment projects must be matched by transparency, accountability and tangible benefits for host communities.
