The Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) has directed the prompt and provisional shutdown of Huiren Mining Company, a China-based enterprise functioning in Jackson Village, Jorquelleh District #3, Bong County.
This choice comes after numerous accusations of unlawful mining activities and breaches of pacts established with nearby populations.
During an unannounced inspection conducted on Saturday, under the leadership of Assistant Minister Carlos E. Tingban, enforcement measures were implemented. The MME group, alongside police personnel, found out that Huiren Mining had expanded its extraction activities past the limits defined in their permit and violated the conditions outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) agreed upon with local communities impacted by these actions.
"At stake here isn’t merely the issue of mining rights,” Assistant Minister Tingban emphasized at a community town hall. “This also involves safeguarding our ecosystem, ensuring responsibility, and advocating for Liberian citizens whose lands and sources of living are being compromised by irresponsible mining firms.”
Over several months, local leaders have voiced worries regarding the firm’s purported inability to fulfill committed social improvement projects, inadequate interaction with inhabitants, and harm to the environment. Residents further mentioned insufficient openness as well as an indifference towards public wellbeing.
The situation intensified during the audit when two representatives from Huiran Mining Corporation, among them the Managing Director, were arrested and detained for interrogation after being placed in handcuffs. Although official announcements regarding their names haven’t been made public, insiders at the department suggest these persons could be facing accusations linked to violations of ecological regulations as well as illegal mining activities.
James Kollie, a young community organizer from Jackson Village, commended the ministry’s initiative. “For several months now, we have voiced these issues,” he stated. “The continuous mining operations at all hours of the day and night were ravaging our territory without adhering to their commitments. The recent steps indicate that the administration has started paying attention.”
The Ministry has since launched a full investigation into the company's activities. All mining operations at the site have been suspended pending the outcome of the probe.
Nobody is exempt from the law," Tingban stressed. "Although we welcome foreign investments, they should comply with Liberia’s regulations and demonstrate reverence for both our citizens and the natural surroundings.
In a short statement, representatives from Huiren Mining Company acknowledged receiving the ministry’s directive and stated their readiness to completely collaborate with the current probe.
This strong regulatory action is one of the most assertive measures taken by the Ministry of Mines and Energy in recent months, signaling a shift toward more stringent oversight of the mining sector and greater protection of community rights.
During the inspection, Bong County District #3 Representative J. Marvin Cole, Bong County Senator Johnny Kpehe Sr., and Bong County Superintendent Loleya Hawa Norris were also in attendance. Each of these officials provided specific comments during their visit, highlighting the importance of corporate accountability, environmental conservation, and improved community engagement.
Representative Cole reaffirmed his dedication to making sure businesses in his district comply with regulations and focus on fostering community growth. Senator Kpehe emphasized the necessity of cooperation between governmental bodies and the public to keep corporate entities responsible. Superintendent Norris urged solidarity amongst locals, promising that the municipal administration is prepared to assist in oversight and promote initiatives supporting these goals.
Their attendance and comments added significant credibility to the ministry’s actions and underscored an increasing agreement amongst regional figures in favor of tighter regulations and open, community-focused stewardship of resources.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).
Posting Komentar