By Morlu F. Freeman Sr.
Concerns are mounting in Lofa County over alleged illegal mining activities involving Chinese nationals in Kpadehmai Bush, District #3, Kolahun, with calls growing for authorities to investigate the matter.
According to information gathered from local sources, the alleged mining operation was being conducted without the necessary licenses or authorization. On Wednesday, August 5, 2026, mining agent Mr. Alieu Konneh reportedly instructed his field supervisor to visit the area and stop the Chinese nationals from mining until the required documentation could be produced.
Sources further allege that the area where the Chinese nationals were operating belongs to another individual, raising questions about possible encroachment on a privately claimed mining area.
The situation reportedly escalated when the field supervisor, accompanied by several individuals, went to the site and forcibly ordered the miners to leave. A video of the incident has since circulated, prompting calls for further investigation.
Following the incident, police reportedly arrested five individuals for questioning, with the suspects spending the night in police custody.
Meanwhile, allegations have surfaced that some local authorities may have received money from the Chinese nationals in exchange for protection that allegedly allowed the mining operation to continue. These claims have not been independently verified, and no evidence has been publicly presented to substantiate the allegations.
As of the latest reports, a field supervisor identified only as Morris remains in police custody as authorities continue their investigation.
Sources say Mr. Konneh had previously visited the mining site and ordered the operation stopped until the necessary legal requirements were fulfilled, but the alleged mining activities reportedly continued.
The situation has raised concerns among residents and stakeholders, who are calling on relevant government authorities to establish whether the miners possess valid permits, determine ownership of the affected land, and investigate any allegations of official misconduct surrounding the operation.
