Man Drowns During Illegal Mining on the Outskirts of Wutuken Community

By: Emmanuel Koffa I Grand Kru County Correspondent

Grand Kru County, Nov. 14, 2025 — Police in Grand Kru County are investigating the drowning of Julius Toe, 35, a resident of Filorken, who died while working on an illegal mining boat on the Noh River in Wutuken Carta Village.

According to police, community watch commander Mr. Koffa reported the incident, prompting officers led by CIP West Jeh to visit the scene.

The victim was found unresponsive along the riverbank and was later pronounced dead by community health worker J. Jlanie Doe.

A 15-man jury examined the body and found no signs of foul play, confirming that Toe died by drowning.

Police say Toe had joined the mining crew for the first time on November 5 when he went missing during work and was later found dead in the river.

Five individuals connected to the illegal operation were arrested and transferred to the Barclayville LNP Detachment for further investigation.

The mining operation was reportedly running without safety measures and investigators could not verify a valid Class “C” license for the site’s alleged owner, Sackor Larmine.

The body of the deceased was turned over to his family for burial.

Seven suspects, including the boat owners and workers, have been charged with manslaughter, economic sabotage, recklessly endangering life, criminal conspiracy, and theft of property.

Based on evidence gathered, the following individuals have been charged: Thomas Mle, Pascal T. Harris, Claryk P. Williams, John K. Toe, Morris P. Kofa, Bill N. Martu, Sackor Larmine (alleged mining claim owner).

They face charges including: Manslaughter (14.1),

Economic Sabotage (15.80), Recklessly Endangering Life (14.23), Criminal Conspiracy (10.4), Theft of Property (15.51)

The suspects are currently detained pending court trial.