By Precious D. Freeman
Three Chinese nationals and their Liberian manager were handed over to the Ministry of Justice after being caught illegally mining in Liberia.
The suspects, part of the Hongtu Mining Company, are facing prosecution for their flagrant violation of Liberia’s Minerals and Mining Law of 2000.
The Ministry of Mines and Energy turned over the detained individuals to the Justice Ministry through the Solicitor General’s office.
Authorities also confiscated all illegal mining equipment used by Hongtu Mining Company, effectively shutting down their illicit operations.
The arrest comes after the company continued illegal mining activities in Mat House Town, Dweh Community, District 1, Grand Bassa County, despite receiving a formal closure order on March 20, 2025.
The company’s defiance of the law prompted a swift intervention by the Ministry of Mines and Energy.
Leading the operation was the Ministry’s Inspector-General, Agatius Coker, alongside Regional Coordinator Foday Varney from the Bureau of Mines.
The crackdown forms part of ongoing government efforts to combat illegal mining and ensure compliance with the nation’s mining regulations.
The Ministry of Mines and Energy has reiterated its commitment to enforcing the law and holding violators accountable, sending a strong message to all involved in illicit mining activities.
The suspects will now face legal action for their continued disregard for Liberia’s mining laws.
