The Special Grand Jury of Gbarpolu County on July 11, 2024 indicted Gao Feng, also known as “Barry” or “the Real Minister of Mines”, along with his associates for their involvement in illicit mining operations in Gbarpolu County. This indictment reportedly represents the largest illicit mining case in Liberia’s history, dating back to 1847.
The 16th Judicial Circuit Court of Gbarpolu County issued a writ of arrest for Gao Feng and his accomplices on charges of economic sabotage, tax evasion, and criminal conspiracy. Although six suspects have been apprehended, Gao Feng and key associates, Li Yingjun, Zheng Yi and Mo Hailong, remain at large.
Before the Ministry of Mines and Energy could render an administrative decision regarding Gao Feng and the companies linked to him, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had fined Gao Feng US$135,000 for mining without an EPA permit.
In March 2023, Urban and Rural Services, Inc., represented by Muntaga Barry, and Gao Feng, along with Liberia Xian Shi Development Co., Ltd., represented by Li Yingjun, conducted illicit mining using four excavators and three washing plants, encroaching on NEO Global Mines and Minerals Inc.’s claim and reportedly generated illegal proceeds estimated at US$5,744,294.40.
In the same March 2023, Scott Investment Incorporation, represented by Randy Scott, and Gao Feng, using three excavators and two washing plants provided by Liberia Xian Shi Development Co., Ltd., also encroached on NEO Global Mines & Minerals Inc.’s claim, with estimated illegal proceeds of US$5,310,240.00.
Also, Xin Li Da Investment Development Ltd., represented by Zheng Yi, and Gao Feng, using four excavators and two washing plants, in collaboration with several associates, engaged in illicit mining activities. The estimated illegal proceeds from these activities total US$12,204,672.00.
In June 2023, Scott Investment Incorporation, represented by Randy Scott, and Gao Feng, without a mining license, utilized six excavators and three washing plants provided by Mo Hai Long within the Manokorlleh, Zalakai Mining District, Gbarpolu County. The estimated illegal proceeds are US$6,619,329.60.
The main perpetrators, Gao Feng, Li Yingjun, Zheng Yi, and Mo Hailong, remain at large. Authorities are urging anyone with information on their whereabouts to come forward immediately.