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ADNews-Gbarpolu: At least three Chinese mining companies face potential suspension following an investigative audit conducted by the office of Representative Zinnah A. Norman, which uncovered widespread non-compliance with community development obligations. One company was found initiating operations without securing legal approval.
By: Benjamin Quaye Johnson benjaminqjohnson@gmail.com
The week-and-a-half-long investigative audit was spearheaded by Chief of Staff Mohammed Kanneh under the directive of Rep . Zinnah A. Norman.
The team reviewed the activities of eight Chinese-owned mining firms operating at various stages—ranging from exploration to full-scale extraction—across the district.
According to the audit findings, three of the eight companies failed to meet basic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) commitments, including infrastructure development, creation of local jobs and adherence to environmental standards.
The report reveals the most egregious violation in the GBAYASU Community, Korgninga, where a company identified as Cosmos had moved excavators and ore crushers onto the site without signing an MOU with the local community. Residents expressed shock and frustration over the company’s actions.
“They brought bulldozers before even introducing themselves,” said a Korgninga elder. “We had no idea who they were or what they were doing on our land.”
Following the discovery, the Investigative audit team immediately halted all operations by Cosmos. The delegation made it clear that no work would resume until a formal agreement was reached with the community.
“We’ve made it clear to all companies: either honor your commitments or face suspension,” said Chief of Staff Mohammed Kanneh. “We’re here to protect our people, and we will not compromise on that.”
This enforcement action is part of a broader effort by the District #1 Representative’s Office to ensure foreign mining companies operate responsibly and uphold the agreements made with host communities. It also comes amid growing concerns over land exploitation, environmental damage, and unfulfilled social development pledges.
When contacted by the Afric-Daily Newspaper, Cosmos representatives declined to comment on the matter.
This marks the second enforcement action against foreign miners in the district this year, signaling a tightening grip on oversight and accountability.
The office of Representative Norman has confirmed that further audits will continue in the coming months, with particular attention to companies still in the exploratory phase.
Local residents within the District have welcomed the intervention by Representative Norman, citing longstanding delays in promised projects, such as school renovations and road improvements, that were outlined in previous MOUs but never delivered.
The Gbarpolu County Electoral District #1 Lawmaker’s office has pledged to intensify enforcement efforts and ensure that all mining companies adhere to their legal and social responsibilities.
The move aligns with a broader regional trend toward stricter governance in the extractive industries, similar to actions seen in countries like Ghana and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
As scrutiny tightens, companies operating in Gbarpolu’s District #3 face a clear ultimatum: comply—or shut down.
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