By Amos Harris
MONROVIA — The Government of Liberia is moving to intensify its fight against illegal mining, with the National Taskforce to Combat Illicit Mining Activities preparing to deploy joint security forces to mining hotspots across the country.
Taskforce Chairman Col. Abraham Kromah disclosed Tuesday at the Ministry of Information press briefing that the security operation is intended to restore order in the mineral sector and protect Liberia’s natural resources from unauthorized exploitation.
Col. Kromah revealed that approximately 485 illegal excavators are currently operating in Grand Kru County alone, describing the situation as a serious challenge requiring coordinated national action.
He said foreign operators are increasingly penetrating hinterland communities, allegedly offering local residents payments of up to US$500 monthly while conducting mining activities that contribute to environmental degradation and the pollution of vital water sources.
According to Col. Kromah, illegal gold and diamond mining is also depriving Liberia of significant economic benefits, with the country estimated to be losing approximately US$1.6 billion in mineral resources to illicit activities.
The National Taskforce was established under Executive Order No. 167 to bring together security, environmental, and regulatory institutions in a coordinated effort to combat illicit mining and strengthen oversight of Liberia’s mineral resources.
Under the operational framework, units of the Armed Forces of Liberia will serve as tactical responders, while the Liberia National Police will maintain civil order. The Liberia Immigration Service will address illegal foreign nationals, with the Ministry of Justice responsible for prosecution. Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Ministry of Mines and Energy will support the operation by assessing environmental damage, strengthening regulatory enforcement, and auditing cadastral and mining systems to identify unauthorized activities.
To reach illegal mining operators located in remote forest areas, the Taskforce plans to deploy specialized drones and other surveillance equipment. With logistical support from the Ministry of Finance, Liberia is also being divided into six operational zones to improve coordination and response times.
Initial deployments are expected in Grand Kru, Sinoe, and Grand Gedeh counties before the operation expands to other mining areas, including Liberia’s western region.
Col. Kromah stressed that the Taskforce will maintain a zero-tolerance approach, targeting illegal equipment, unauthorized mining sites, and individuals involved in violations. The Taskforce Chairman said the government’s broader objective is not only to stop illegal mining, but also to protect Liberia’s environment, strengthen the country’s mineral governance, and ensure that its vast natural resources generate meaningful benefits for the Liberian people.