Grand Kru County’s Development Officer, Joe Sekpeh, has raised alarm over widespread illicit mining in Dougbo, Electoral District #1, accusing local residents of complicity in the unlawful activities.
Sekpeh disclosed that the County Administration has instructed the Liberia National Police’s Grand Kru Detachment to shut down all illegal mining operations in the area. He cited several pressing concerns behind the directive, including: Resource depletion that threatens the county’s development prospects.
Severe environmental and health risks to the community, Heightened danger to children from unsafe mining practices, Potential surge in drug use and substance abuse and Disruption of development and decentralization efforts.
Speaking on a local radio show on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, Sekpeh dismissed speculation that a registered company was behind the mining, despite reports of heavy equipment on-site. He stressed that the operations were unauthorized and driven by community members in violation of mining laws.
“The county’s resources must not be exploited for personal gain,” Sekpeh said, vowing that the administration will take firm action against offenders.
Some residents echoed his concerns, noting that the illicit mining has brought no meaningful benefits to Dougbo. Efforts by reporters to obtain comments from the Ministry of Mines and other local stakeholders proved unsuccessful.
