Liberian officials have arrested eleven Ghanaians for engaging in what they call ‘illegal gold and diamond mining’.
They were arrested in the Bong County following a joint operation comprising the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Ministry of Mines and Energy, according to officials.
The Liberian security agency officials paraded publicly on Friday the Ghanaians who were handcuffed for the alleged crime.
They would now be facing further probe and prosecution by the Ministry of Justice.
Liberia’s Mines and Energy Minister Gesler E. Murray told the media that the arrest is part of efforts to fight against unlawful activities that continue to destroy the environment.
“These Ghanaian nationals have no work permit and no resident permit so their status is undefined,” Murray said.
He added that “If what is happening right now goes on unabated, it will have a huge consequence. Our water body is been polluted with mercury and other harmful substances.”
Liberian lawmakers have complained about the failure of government officials to deal with illegal mining activities.
The latest crackdown is seen as a reaction to concerns from many Liberians on the menace.
