Monrovia, Liberia, April 25, 2024 — The Liberian Senate’s Plenary has taken decisive action, mandating the Committee on Lands, Mines, Energy, Natural Resources, and Environment to probe concerning reports of suspicious mining activities in Gbarpolu County.
The impetus for this investigation came from an official communication submitted by Senators Amara M. Konneh and Botoe S. Kanneh, both representing Gbarpolu County. Their joint communication, presented to the Plenary on Thursday, April 25, 2024, specifically highlights the alleged involvement of a Chinese national named Gao Feng, commonly known as “Barry.” According to the Senators, Mr. Feng operates an illicit mining empire across Liberia, utilizing proxies Mr. Roland Carten and Mr. Samuel Fahn, both residents of Gbarpolu County.
The gravity of the situation becomes evident as the Senators reveal that Mr. Feng is reportedly engaged in illegal mining activities within Gbarpolu County. His operations extend to Belle Yallah, Henry Town, Monakorlleh, and various parts of District #3, where he allegedly employs at least twenty excavators across twelve washing plants.
Adding to the complexity, Senators Konneh and Kanneh assert that the Ministry of Lands, Mines, and Energy revoked Class C licenses previously issued to Liberian artisanal miners. In a puzzling turn of events, these same sites have now been granted licenses to Mr. Feng, effectively depriving local miners of their livelihoods. If substantiated, this would be a grave injustice.
The companies allegedly owned and operated by Mr. Feng in Gbarpolu County include Urban and Rural Services Inc. Exploration (License MEL 8000522), Scott Investment Incorporation (Exploration with License MEL 9005123), and Xin Li Da Investment Development Ltd. (Exploration License MEL 7008623).
The Senators contend that Mr. Feng’s actions may have violated several laws, including the Mineral and Mining Act of 2000, specifically section 8.2 concerning the restoration of mining sites. This provision mandates responsible stewardship by every holder of a mineral right.
As the investigation unfolds, Liberia grapples with the implications of illicit mining—how it impacts local communities, undermines legal frameworks, and perpetuates economic disparities. The Senate’s commitment to uncovering the truth underscores the urgency of addressing such practices and safeguarding the nation’s natural resources for the benefit of all.
Abraham Kollie, Investigative Reporter
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