The Liberian government has placed the contested mining site in Ben-Ben Town, Todee District, Montserrado County under state administration.
Following an extensive investigative process, which utilized advanced cloud technology for data collection, the Ministry concluded that the land at the center of the dispute is not owned by either of the two contending parties that have laid claim to it.
Assistant Minister Edison Tingban said neither group holds a valid Mining License for the site, asserting that the licenses in their possession pertain to areas outside the disputed mining pit.
“The government of Liberia owns the disputed area in accordance with the Minerals and Mining Law of 2000,” Tingban stated, emphasizing that the state holds the authority to determine future operations at the site. He reiterated that the Ministry of Mines and Energy would make further decisions regarding mining activities there, consistent with legal provisions.
This resolution comes after a tumultuous 10-month period marked by conflict and heightened tensions among local groups disputing control over the mineral-rich site.
To prevent further escalation, Minister Tingban reinforced the ongoing moratorium on all mining activities in Ben-Ben Town and warned residents against any violations of the government’s stay order.
Representatives from the office of Montserrado County Senator Saah Joseph and District #1 Representative Rugie Barry attended the meeting, signaling political support for the government’s decision. Todee District Commissioner Elijah K. George, Sr., alongside other community leaders, urged attendees to respect the rule of law and embrace the findings of the Ministry’s technical report. They condemned the violence that has characterized the dispute and called for a peaceful resolution among the involved parties.
“We must prioritize dialogue and reconciliation to foster peace within our community,” Commissioner George stated, highlighting the need for collaboration in exploring feasible paths to resume mining operations that could support local livelihoods.
