By: Emmanuel Koffa |Grand Kru County Correspondent
Dougbo, Grand Kru County – June 7, 2025-Following recent reports of escalating concerns over illicit mining activities in the Dougbo Community, of Grand Kru County, the Ministry of Mines and Energy took decisive action on Tuesday by deploying its Compliance Enforcement Team to halt all unauthorized mining operations in the area.
The illicit mining activity which is engulfed within the Community is taking place alone the main road leading from Barclayville to Pleebo, and in the middle of the Dougbo Community.
This move aims to safeguard the environment, protect local livelihoods, and reaffirm the government’s commitment to regulating the mining sector.
Recently, Grand Kru County local officials through the County Administrative Officer, Alphonso DN. Teah including some residents have reported an increase in illegal mining activities, which have reportedly been impacting the local community in various detrimental ways.
Our Correspondent who recently visited the Dougbo Community said, the growing operations have not only led to extensive environmental degradation but have also disrupted traditional farming activities and posed health risks to inhabitants.
According to a release, the Compliance Enforcement Team conducted a thorough investigation and found several mining operations lacking the necessary permits and licenses, which are crucial for ensuring that mining practices align with environmental standards and community welfare.
The Mines and Energy Compliance Team stated, “The government has zero tolerance for illegal mining activities that jeopardize our natural resources and the welfare of our communities. Today’s action underscores our commitment to sustainable mining practices and the protection of our environment.”
Following the shutdown of all illicit mining activities in the Dougbo Community, Grand Kru County Administrative Officer Alphonso DN Teah expressed gratitude for the intervention; citing the negative consequences of illegal mining on clean water sources and agricultural lands. “We as County officials have been struggling since the miners took over our people land. Now, I think our people will finally breathe a little knowing that their land is safe.”
Frustratingly, some local miners, who had been engaged in illegal activities, voiced their concerns over the loss of income, as many had relied on mining as a means of subsistence.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Mines and Energy has made it clear that this intervention is just the beginning of a broader strategy to combat illegal mining across the country, indicating that further actions will be taken against those found violating mining regulations; while the Ministry is working closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance and protect natural resources.
Edited: Jesefu Morris Keita| Editor-In -Chief
