MARGIBI COUNTY — Verity News is recording a major breakthrough in its ongoing investigation into alleged illegal mining activities in Margibi County, following the intervention of the Ministry of Mines and Energy after the newspaper reported on suspected foreign miners operating along the Farmington River.
The development is being viewed as a significant win for investigative journalism and the protection of Liberia’s natural resources, as authorities have moved to take action following public attention drawn to the alleged mining activities.
Verity News recently reported on a group of suspected illegal miners, many of whom were identified as Malian nationals, who were intercepted along the Farmington River in the Hydro Community, Firestone District, Lower Margibi County.
The alleged miners were subsequently taken to the Roberts International Airport Police Detachment for questioning, with the Liberia National Police, Liberia Immigration Service and Plants Protection Department ( PPD) reportedly involved in the process.
Following the report and subsequent investigation, the matter reached the Ministry of Mines and Energy. Officials from the Ministry have since collected materials reportedly brought by the foreign nationals for suspected gold-mining activities along the Farmington River.
During Verity News’ investigation, several of the alleged miners reportedly admitted that they did not have mining licenses. They allegedly said they were only “checking to know if the water is rich” before proceeding with mining activities.
An inspector of the Ministry of Mines and Energy, identified as Foeday S. Varney, reportedly arrived with a truck on Friday, August 7, 2026, and collected the materials associated with the alleged mining operation.
The development represents an important outcome of Verity News’ commitment to investigative journalism and its efforts to bring issues of public concern to the attention of relevant authorities.
The newspaper will continue following up with the Ministry of Mines and Energy to establish whether the collected materials have been formally received and to obtain the Ministry’s findings regarding the alleged miners and their activities.
Verity News is also calling on citizens to support responsible journalism and lawful efforts to expose activities that could threaten Liberia’s natural resources
