The Ministry of Mines and Vitality (MME) has ordered the speedy and non permanent closure of Huiren Mining Firm, a Chinese language-owned company working in Jackson Village, Jorquelleh District #3, Bong County.
By Edwin N. Khakie
Jackson Village, Bong County – June 2, 2025 – The choice follows mounting allegations of unlawful mining practices and violations of agreements made with native communities.
The enforcement motion was taken throughout a shock inspection on Saturday, led by Assistant Minister Carlos E. Tingban. Accompanied by regulation enforcement officers, the MME workforce reportedly found that Huiren Mining had prolonged its operations past the boundaries set in its license and had breached the phrases of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with communities straight affected by its actions.
“This isn’t nearly mining rights,” Assistant Minister Tingban said throughout a city corridor assembly held with residents. “It’s about defending the environment, imposing accountability, and standing up for the rights of Liberians whose land and livelihoods are being exploited by noncompliant mining corporations.”
For months, group leaders have raised issues concerning the firm’s alleged failure to ship on promised social improvement initiatives, poor communication with residents, and environmental degradation. Locals additionally cited an absence of transparency and disrespect for group welfare.
Tensions escalated throughout the inspection when two Huiren Mining Firm officers, together with the Normal Supervisor, had been handcuffed and brought into custody for questioning. Although their identities haven’t been formally launched, sources throughout the ministry point out the people could face prices associated to environmental infractions and unauthorized extraction of mineral sources.
James Kollie, a youth chief from Jackson Village, praised the ministry’s intervention. “We’ve been elevating these issues for months,” he mentioned. “They had been mining day and evening, destroying our land, and never residing as much as their guarantees. This motion exhibits that the federal government is lastly listening.”
The Ministry has since launched a full investigation into the corporate’s actions. All mining operations on the website have been suspended pending the end result of the probe.
“Nobody is above the regulation,” Tingban emphasised. “Whereas we encourage international funding, it should align with Liberia’s legal guidelines and present respect for our individuals and the atmosphere.”
In a quick assertion, Huiren Mining Firm officers confirmed that they had acquired the ministry’s order and expressed willingness to completely cooperate with the continuing investigation.
This sturdy regulatory motion is likely one of the most assertive measures taken by the Ministry of Mines and Vitality in current months, signaling a shift towards extra stringent oversight of the mining sector and higher safety of group rights.
Additionally current throughout the inspection had been Bong County District #3 Consultant. J. Marvin Cole, Bong County Senator. Johnny Kpehe Sr., and Bong County Superintendent. Loleya Hawa Norris. All three officers issued particular remarks throughout the go to, emphasizing the necessity for company duty, environmental stewardship, and strengthened group relations.
Rep. Cole reiterated his dedication to making sure that corporations working inside his district adhere to the legal guidelines and prioritize group improvement. Senator Kpehe underscored the significance of collaboration between authorities establishments and residents to carry companies accountable. Superintendent Norris known as for unity amongst residents, assuring them that the native authorities stands able to assist enforcement and advocacy efforts.
Their presence and statements lent further weight to the ministry’s motion and highlighted a rising consensus amongst native leaders for stricter regulation and clear, community-centered useful resource administration.
