GRAND CAPE MOUNT, LIBERIA – Disturbing photos have emerged from a recent protest at the Bea Mountain mining site in Kinjor, Grand Cape Mount County. The protest took a violent turn, resulting in several injuries and extensive property damage.
Speaking to our correspondent who visited the site Wednesday, the protesters accused the Company of bad labor practices and no compliance with the Mineral Development Agreement entered into between the company and the government of Liberia.
As tensions escalated, enraged citizens took matters into their own hands and set several excavators ablaze. The destruction of these heavy machinery units not only caused significant financial loss but also disrupted mining operations in the area.
In addition to the property damage, protesters threatened to burn down structures at the mining site. Their anger and frustration were fueled by what they perceived as a lack of action and accountability from the authorities.
It has been reported that the deployment of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) was ordered by Joe Boakai, raising questions about the government’s response to the situation. The decision to involve the military in a civilian protest has further intensified the unrest and strained relations between the community and the government.
Local authorities and mining company officials are currently assessing the situation and working to restore peace in the area. Efforts are being made to address the grievances of the community and ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.
The incident at the Kinjor mining site highlights the urgent need for improved communication and dialogue between mining companies, local communities, and government authorities. It also raises concerns about the working conditions and treatment of workers in the mining industry.
At least 20 people have been arrested by the Liberia National Police (LNP), while four others who sustained injuries have been treated at health centers in the county. Meanwhile, the County’s Legislative Caucus, headed by Representative Mohammed Dosii, has called on the citizens to remain calm as the Caucus engages management.
Representative Dosii assured the citizens of the Caucus fullest support in ensuring that the company lives up to the MDA.
Despite several past protests and complaints from citizens regarding Bea Mountain’s alleged bad labor practices and the immune treatment against them, the government of Liberia in 2023 re-negotiated the Company’s Concession agreement with a 25-year extension.
