By Patrick Teah, Jr.
Grand Kru County — Mounting concerns over environmental safety and government oversight are gripping residents of Forpoh and surrounding communities in Grand Kru County, where large-scale mining operations allegedly conducted by Chinese nationals have left behind hazardous, unreclaimed sites.
An ongoing investigation by Verity Online News has uncovered what citizens describe as a growing environmental and humanitarian crisis. Across several active and abandoned mining locations in Forpoh, deep pits dug by heavy-duty excavators remain uncovered and filled with stagnant water, posing serious dangers to local communities.
Residents say the abandoned pits have become makeshift swimming spots for children, leading to reported drowning incidents involving minors.
“This is a complete disaster for our people,” one resident said. “Our children are using mining holes as swimming pools. Lives are being lost.”
Reporters observed excavators and other heavy machinery operating at various sites, suggesting that mining activities remain ongoing. While such operations can potentially contribute to economic growth and employment, many community members argue that tangible benefits have yet to materialize.
Instead, they say, environmental degradation and public safety risks appear to outweigh any visible development gains.
The role of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and county authorities is now under intense scrutiny. Residents allege that although EPA officials and local leaders occasionally visit the area, there has been no visible enforcement of land reclamation requirements.
Some community members claim that visiting officials often remain within the town and do not inspect active mining sites.
“We can see county authorities coming here,” a local youth said, “but no reclamation is done. The EPA will come, but they allegedly stop right in town and go back. We don’t know their real presence here.”
Under Liberia’s environmental regulations, mining operators are required to rehabilitate mined-out areas to prevent environmental degradation and protect public safety. Failure to reclaim such sites can result in long-term environmental damage and significant risks to surrounding communities.
Environmental observers warn that unreclaimed mining pits can contribute to soil erosion, destruction of farmland, contamination of water sources, increased mosquito breeding and associated health risks, as well as permanent ecological damage.
In response, residents are calling for:
A full investigation into mining operations in Forpoh
Immediate reclamation of abandoned mining pits
Transparent disclosure of mining permits and environmental impact assessments
Stronger monitoring and enforcement by the EPA and county leadership
The unfolding situation in Forpoh, District #2, underscores broader concerns about environmental governance and community safety in Liberia.
As frustration intensifies, residents are urging national authorities to intervene before further tragedies occur.
