By Morlu F. Freeman Sr.
Lofa County, Liberia – An investigation by Verity News has uncovered confusion and growing concern among local leaders in Lofa County over suspected mining activities allegedly involving Chinese nationals in the Kpademai bush area.
The situation came to light when Lisco Town Chief Emmanuel F. Kollie recounted a chance encounter with a group of individuals ~ reportedly including Chinese nationals ~ on his way to Voinjama City. The group claimed they were heading to the Lisco swamp, also known locally as “Big Swamp,” though no official notification had been given to town authorities.
Upon his return, Chief Kollie was informed that the group had started constructing a bridge near the swamp. Mr. Kollie, confronted the group, who claimed their destination was Lisco. However, after objections, they reportedly redirected toward the Kpademai bush, where they later established a camp and opened a new road.
Kollie sought clarity from the Sessional Chief of Kpademai, who denied knowledge of any such group or mining activities in the area ~ despite the fact that preparations were visibly underway. The conflicting accounts have deepened confusion about who authorized the group’s presence and what their intentions truly are.
Tensions escalated further when the Sessional Chief reportedly warned that if the Chinese miners proceeded into the bush, local youths would be mobilized to stop them. In subsequent discussions, Kpademai representatives admitted to the presence of the group but said no formal agreements or documentation had been signed.
Chief Kollie also reached out to the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) commander in the region, Mr. Vayanba, to inquire about any authorized machinery operations in the area. The commander reportedly denied any knowledge of such plans, promising an investigation. However, residents now suspect that at least two mining machines have been transported to the old LCADP building near Kpotomai Town.
Adding to the controversy are allegations that local patrolman George Mamu may have played a role in bringing the group to the area. Reports suggest Mamu, alongside a local Kpelleh man, may have initiated early prospecting efforts before the group’s arrival. Mamu later threatened to report local resistance efforts to Superintendent J. Levelah Massaquoi, raising questions about his role and intentions.
According to Kollie, citizens of Lisco remain unaware of any legal agreements regarding mining in the area. He emphasized that the swamp is a shared resource between Lisco and Kpademai, and insisted that any future agreements must include both communities. However, Kpademai authorities have asserted that Lisco is simply a village under their jurisdiction, giving them sole authority over such matters.
Chief Kollie concluded that he would only recognize any mining activity as legitimate if the group can present proper legal documentation from the county authority, ensuring full transparency and compliance with the law.
The matter remains unresolved, with no official statement yet from Superintendent Massaquoi or the Ministry of Mines and Energy.
