Bong Authorities Intensify Crackdown on Illegal Burkinabe Miners
May 6, 2025
By Matalay Kollie
Zota Wolapolu, Bong: In a determined effort to combat the rising tide of illegal mining activities in Liberia, local authorities in Bong County have launched a significant crackdown on illegal Burkinabe miners operating within the County’s fourth district, Zota.
The announcement was made by County Superintendent Loleyah Hawa Norris during a press briefing on Monday, May 5, 2025, following the alarming discovery of numerous illegal mining sites just a day prior. Superintendent Norris emphasized that the operations of these illicit miners were conducted without the consent of local leadership.
Despite this, reports from the Liberia Immigration Service indicated that the Burkinabe miners possessed valid documentation at the time of their entry into Liberia. This contradiction has raised questions regarding regulation and oversight in the mining sector, particularly as it relates to foreign nationals operating in the country.
The illegal mining activities came to light on Sunday, May 4, 2025, when local authorities were initially dispatched to the area to mediate disputes between indigenous miners and the H&K Mining Company a Chinese mining entity active in the region. The team’s visit uncovered the extent of the illegal operations.
This unexpected discovery has catalyzed a swift response from local government officials. In the wake of these revelations, authorities have arrested two prominent figures Harouna Ouedalaogo, 44 years and Barchezu Sone, 42 years among the illegal miners.
These individuals have been transferred to the police for further investigation. Additionally, law enforcement has seized various materials tied to the illegal operations, including hazardous chemicals and documentation relating to other individuals involved in the mining activities.
This evidence will be crucial as the investigation proceeds. Both Superintendent Norris and Bong County Attorney Jonathan Flomo underscored their grave concerns about the environmental and health risks posed by the illegal mining practices. Reports indicate that these miners have been employing toxic chemicals, particularly mercury, to extract valuable resources from the land.
This practice not only threatens the integrity of local water supplies but also poses dire health risks to the communities relying on these resources. Local authorities are alarmed by the potential for environmental degradation and the broader implications it holds for public health and safety in Bong County. In light of these developments, Bong County leadership has issued an urgent appeal to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other relevant bodies to intervene quickly and decisively.
The leaders are advocating for enhanced oversight and enforcement mechanisms to address illegal mining activities and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. As the situation unfolds, the Bong County authorities are intensifying efforts to mitigate the impact of illegal mining activities, which pose significant risks to both the environment and public health.
The recent actions taken against the Burkinabe miners signify a crucial step towards safeguarding the region’s natural resources and ensuring the well-being of its residents. Local leaders remain hopeful that collaborative efforts with national agencies will result in effective measures to prevent further illegal operations and protect Bong County’s communities from the hazards of toxic mining practices.
