GBARPOLU CO., LIBERIA – In a dramatic turn of events, three prominent figures linked to an extensive illicit mining operation in Gbarpolu County have been transported to prison in Bopolu City. The individuals, Randall Doe, Randy Scott, and Gao Feng, known as Barry, were apprehended by the National Security Agency (NSA) and presented before the 16th Judicial Circuit Court. Presiding over the proceedings is His Honorable Judge Wesseh A. Wesseh, who is tasked with overseeing what many are calling the most significant mining scandal in Liberia’s history.
The recent arrest order, signed by Judge Wesseh Alphonsus Wesseh on July 18, 2024, stresses the gravity of the situation. It targets those at the helm of a major illegal mining operation in Gbarpolu County. Central to this case is Gao Feng, often referred to as “Barry” or “the Real Minister of Mines,” who, along with associates such as Li Yingjun, Zheng Yi, and Mo Hailong, faces serious charges. These include economic sabotage, tax evasion, and criminal conspiracy, highlighting the extent of their alleged crimes.
The scale of the illicit activities came to light through an indictment from the Special Grand Jury of Gbarpolu County, dated July 11, 2024. This document outlines a web of criminal operations that are reportedly the largest since Liberia’s founding in 1847. The scandal not only reveals the depth of illegal mining activities but also showcases how these operations were disguised as legitimate business endeavors, deceiving regulatory authorities and the public alike.
Previously, the Environmental Protection Agency took initial action against Gao Feng, imposing a fine of USD 135,000 for operating without the necessary permits. This fine was just the beginning of a broader investigation into what is now recognized as a substantial criminal enterprise. Reports suggest that Gao Feng and his associates orchestrated illegal mining activities that generated over USD 29 million, marking a significant financial impact on the nation’s economy.
Urban and Rural Services, Inc., led by Muntaga Barry, is reportedly implicated in securing illegal earnings amounting to USD 5.7 million. These activities involved unauthorized mining on claims legally held by other companies, further complicating the legal landscape and leading to conflicts over rightful ownership and operations. Such actions have drawn significant attention from both legal authorities and environmental agencies, sparking widespread condemnation.
Similarly, Scott Investment Incorporation, led by Randy Scott and Gao Feng, is alleged to have engaged in illicit activities resulting in USD 5.3 million in illegal proceeds. This venture reportedly involved further encroachment on established mining claims, exacerbating existing legal conflicts and contributing to a growing crisis in the region. The case against them emphasizes the sophisticated nature of their operations and their apparent disregard for legal protocols.
Xin Li Da Investment Development Ltd., represented by Zheng Yi, reportedly collaborated with Gao Feng to amass nearly USD 12.2 million. The use of advanced equipment and technologies highlights the organized nature of their operations, which were conducted with an apparent level of sophistication and planning that has alarmed authorities. This collaboration further underscores the extensive network of individuals and companies involved in the illicit mining activities.
In June 2023, Scott Investment Incorporation, in partnership with Gao Feng, reportedly conducted mining operations without obtaining the necessary licenses, yielding USD 6.6 million in illegal proceeds in the Manokorlleh, Zalakai Mining District. This blatant disregard for legal and environmental standards has sparked outrage among local communities and environmental activists, who have long warned about the consequences of unchecked mining activities.
In response to these grave allegations, an arrest order was issued, and Inspector General Col. Gregory Coleman is now tasked with ensuring that all suspects are apprehended and brought before the court. The legal proceedings aim to address the extensive financial and environmental damage caused by these activities, with a focus on restoring justice and accountability within the mining sector.
Despite the detention of six individuals, several key figures remain at large, prompting an urgent and widespread search effort. Authorities are determined to bring these individuals to justice, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency in Liberia’s mining industry. The unfolding legal battle is expected to have far-reaching implications, both for the individuals involved and for the country’s approach to regulating its valuable natural resources.
