The late Richard Saba, who was found lying face down in a large gold pit at a goldmining camp in Barfowean, Grand Kru County.
By Emmanuel Koffa | Grand Kru County
The Liberia National Police (LNP) in Grand Kru County has launched an investigation into a fatal mudslide at a gold mining camp in Barfowean, Dorbor District, which claimed the lives of two miners on March 18, 2026.
Authorities confirmed that the victims, identified as Richard Saba and Stephen Doe, were trapped when a pile of dirt collapsed into a mining pit. Despite frantic rescue efforts by fellow workers and community members, both men died at the scene or shortly after.
Police reports indicate that the tragedy was first reported by Franco Togba, a 45-year-old resident of Sasstown, who informed authorities that his brother, Richard Saba, had been involved in a mining accident. A team led by Superintendent Leon Q. Acquaah, Commander of the Crime Services Department in Grand Kru County, was dispatched to the site.
Upon arrival, investigators found Saba lying face down in a large gold pit. Meanwhile, Doe was rushed to a nearby clinic in Nyankunpo, Bolloh Statutory District, but was pronounced dead by medical staff.
Police interviewed five individuals of interest, all residents of Barfowean community: Lawrence Williams (29), Jerry Chebortoh (44), and Patrick N. Weah (29) among others. They explained that during their shift at the mining site, owned by S. Taryee Doe and Jerome N. Coleman, they had paused for a meal near a dirt pile. Without warning, the soil shifted, collapsing into the pit where Saba and Doe were working.
Witnesses said the victims cried out for help as they fell into the debris. Fellow miners rushed to assist, but despite determined efforts, the men could not be saved.
Site proprietors Doe and Coleman told police they were alerted by employees about the landslide and hurried to the camp. On arrival, they found Saba already dead, while Doe was being transported to the clinic.
The district coroner convened a 15-member jury to examine the remains. Their findings ruled out foul play, concluding that the deaths were accidental. Following the examination, families of the victims requested the release of the bodies for burial, which was granted.
The five individuals of interest have been taken to Barclayville police station for further questioning as part of the broader investigation. Authorities are expected to probe safety conditions at the mining site, including whether proper precautions were in place to prevent such accidents.
The incident underscores the dangers associated with artisanal and small-scale gold mining in Liberia, particularly in rural communities where safety standards are often minimal. Mudslides, cave-ins, and flooding are recurrent hazards, frequently resulting in fatalities.
Local residents have long voiced concerns about the lack of oversight in mining operations, which are often run informally and without adequate protective measures. While mining provides vital income for many families, the risks remain high, especially during the rainy season when soil erosion intensifies.
The deaths of Saba and Doe have cast a shadow over Barfowean, where mining is a primary livelihood. Community members expressed grief and frustration, calling for stronger enforcement of safety regulations and better support for miners.
Police say the investigation will continue until all circumstances surrounding the mudslide are clarified. Meanwhile, families of the victims are preparing for burial ceremonies, mourning the sudden loss of two breadwinners.
