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By: Kongoi Gborkorquellie
BONG, MARCH 31, 2026_The Ministry of Mines and Energy has ordered the immediate suspension of Huiren Mining Company’s operations in Bong County after uncovering major breaches of regulatory, safety, and environmental standards.
The shutdown, which took effect on Saturday, March 28, 2026, followed a high-level technical assessment conducted over the weekend by a team led by Director of Mines Alwell Aloysius Carr and Deputy Inspector General for Mines Adolphus Gleekia.
The inspection revealed what authorities described as a systemic failure by the company to comply with established mining regulations and safety protocols.
According to the Ministry, Huiren Mining Company failed to provide mandatory production reports and other key documentation required for operational transparency and regulatory compliance.
Inspectors also identified serious structural issues at the site, including an unsafe and unstable shaft collar that poses significant risks to workers.
Further findings pointed to a near absence of basic health and safety measures at both the mining and processing facilities, raising concerns about employee welfare and adherence to occupational safety standards.
The inspection also uncovered the improper storage of hazardous chemicals, including sodium cyanide, ammonium nitrate, and sodium hydroxide, along with other reagents and oxidizing agents.
Authorities warned that the unsafe handling and stockpiling of these substances present serious threats to human health and the surrounding environment.
The Ministry emphasized that such violations will not be tolerated, reiterating that full compliance with Liberia’s mining and environmental laws remains a fundamental requirement for all operators in the sector.
As part of enforcement actions, the inspection team has recommended sanctions against the company in line with applicable laws.
The Ministry has also launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the full scope of Huiren’s ore production activities, plant recovery processes, and the sourcing and use of chemicals in its Carbon-In-Leach operations.
Operations at the Bong County site will remain suspended pending the outcome of a full compliance audit. The company will only be allowed to resume activities after addressing all identified deficiencies and demonstrating strict adherence to regulatory, safety, and environmental standards.
The move underscores the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to protecting public safety, safeguarding the environment, and promoting responsible mining practices across Liberia.
