Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Wilson
Published on 2024-03-01 07:41:48
A Chinese national has been arrested and is facing police investigation at the Pleebo Police Detachment in Pleebo, Maryland County for his alleged involvement in illegal mining activities. The individual was discovered by residents and community members of Gebio, Zone #9 community in Pleebo on Saturday morning, February 24, 2024, engaging in illegal mining activities.
According to eyewitnesses from the affected community, the residents became aware of the situation due to the loud sound of equipment being used at night when everyone in the area was asleep. They observed this happening on two consecutive nights, prompting them to raise concerns about the illegal activities taking place.
The construction of the Harper to Fish town road corridor in Maryland County by a Chinese Construction Company known as ‘China Railway’ in 2015 led to the establishment of a 12-bedroom house and a parcel of land given to the company for settlement and operations. After the completion of the road in 2022, the China Railway Company vacated the site, but it was later occupied by another Chinese Company called ‘SOAR MINING INC.’ without clear reasons provided to the residents.
The situation caught the attention of the Police Chief Investigator in Pleebo, Detective Jimmie T Kaydor, and other Joint Security members, along with local authorities in Pleebo. Upon investigation, they discovered two holes dug by excavators and a Katakata machine installed over the hole, as well as a truck filled with dirt at the scene.
The company’s Manager, Mr. Romeo Leo, and Tao Yemie, CEO of SOAR Mining INC., were invited for questioning by the joint security and local authorities. They claimed to be a licensed mining company collecting samples for testing at their residence and mentioned that the holes were dug to prevent water hazards in the community.
Further investigations revealed that the dirt in the truck was from Grand Kru for processing samples, not from Maryland as alleged by the residents. The police confirmed that there were no active mining activities taking place at the site as reported by the community. The management of the company was advised to close the holes temporarily until proper negotiations could be made to resume their operations.
Overall, the situation involving the Chinese national and the mining company in Pleebo, Maryland County highlights the importance of transparency and proper communication between companies and local communities. It is essential for all parties involved to adhere to regulations and address any concerns raised by residents to avoid potential conflicts and legal issues in the future.
Read the original article on New Republic Liberia
