By: Willie N. Tokpah/ Contributing Writer
Buchanan, Liberia – Police have launched a preliminary investigation into the mysterious discovery of a dead body aboard an ArcelorMittal train wagon. The body was found at Buchanan Port, hidden under extracted ore being transported out of Liberia.
The deceased, identified as a man in his early 30s, was discovered by security personnel at ArcelorMittal’s entry point at Buchanan Port. The body was found on Friday night, May 24, during the offloading of ore from the train to a ship.
The train, which originated from Yekepa in Nimba County, arrived at Buchanan Port at approximately 5:45 PM. It was carrying a load of iron ore and was marked with the number 9462.
The discovery was made by an operator who was offloading the ore from the sixth wagon at a location known as Tail Pulley, where train wagons are typically emptied.
A source within the Port of Buchanan reported that the body was found during routine offloading operations.
Meanwhile, ArcelorMittal has confirmed the discovery, stating that the individual is not an employee of the company. The circumstances of how the man ended up in the wagon remain unknown, as the investigation continues.
In a statement released today, ArcelorMittal said, “ArcelorMittal immediately informed the Liberia National Police, who have launched a formal investigation. The company will cooperate fully with the investigation.”
The body remains under security watch as the investigation continues.
There is speculation about the possibility of foul play. Local tensions have recently flared between community members in Nimba County and ArcelorMittal over the company’s operations in the area.
This friction led to roadblocks set up by Traditional Brush Masters, disrupting the company’s activities. However, these blockades were lifted after a dialogue between the company and local stakeholders, allowing for continued negotiations.
The police are however urging anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward as they work to unravel the mystery behind the death.
ArcelorMittal, the world’s leading steel and mining company, operates in 60 countries with primary steelmaking facilities in 17. In 2020, the company reported revenues of $53.3 billion, with crude steel production of 71.5 million metric tonnes and iron ore production of 58 million metric tonnes. ArcelorMittal aims to contribute to building a better world with smarter steels.
