By Patrick Stephen Tokpah
/Bong
Residents of Zota Wolapolu, Bong County have accused Chinese-owned H&K Mining Inc. of attempting to operate in the area without proper community engagement in the County.
The company, which has held a “Class A” mining license since 2022, is under fire for allegedly bypassing key consultations with local inhabitants.
The residents of Zota Wolapolu Clan in Electoral District#4 claim H&K is illegally encroaching on land where they have long conducted legal mining operations under TA–TANG, a “Class B” licensed company.
Many view the situation as a blatant disregard for their livelihoods and community rights.
The controversy has been further complicated by allegations against Bong County Police Commander Fasu Sheriff. Locals have accused him of aiding H&K’s operations.
Claims which Commander Sheriff has since denied, asserting he lacks the authority to evict a licensed company.
However his visible presence with mining officials has fueled suspicions of collusion.
In response to mounting unrest, Bong County Superintendent LoleyahHawa Norris, District Lawmaker Robert Womgba, and County Attorney Jonathan Flomo visited the area on Sunday, May 4, 2025, to mediate.
However, the mediation team was met with resistance, as residents demanded their grievances be addressed before allowing H&K to proceed.
Addressing residents in Gbargonia Town, Lawmaker Womgba urged patience, requesting a week to consult with H&K and county officials.
He promised to return with findings and encouraged calm dialogue over confrontation.
Superintendent Norris criticized the community’s rejection of the mediation team, affirming that the Ministry of Mines and Energy had formally recognized H&K’s operations.
She encouraged residents to pursue legal channels to resolve the dispute.
As the one-week period for negotiations nears its end, the situation in Zota Wolapolu remains tense.
The outcome will not only determine the future of mining in the district but could also set a precedent for how community rights are handled in Liberia’s extractive sectors.
