By Shallon S. Gonlor
DOILAY TOWN, Nimba County, Liberia – The Ministry of Mines and Energy has launched an official investigation into a significant gold discovery that has triggered an uncontrolled rush in Doilay Town, a small community about 10 kilometers from Tappita City along the Tappita-Zwedru main road in Electoral District #6.
Minister R. Matenokay Tingban confirmed he has spoken with Nimba County Superintendent Kou Meapeh Gono, and decisions have been made to bring the situation under control pending the team’s findings. The Ministry has urged the public to avoid sensationalizing the matter and said results of the investigation will be communicated once the team concludes its work.
A technical team comprising Mining Engineers and Geologists has been dispatched to the scene. The team is headed by Geologist Emmanuel Vaye, Assistant Minister for Planning, Research, and Development, and assisted by Inspector-General for Mines Agatius B. Coker, Mining Engineer Alwell Aloysius Carr, and Deputy Inspector-General Adolphus M.G.D. Gleekia.
According to residents, the initial discovery was made on Friday, sparking a frenzied response that has brought the community to a standstill. Men, women, youths, children, and elders have abandoned farming and other daily activities to scour motor roads, roadside areas, and drainage systems in search of the precious metal.
Armed with makeshift tools including pans, buckets, hoes, and shovels, community members are digging and sifting through soil and water in a frantic effort to uncover gold. Local media outlet Voice of Tappita Online TV reported that some early discoverers have already sold their finds to purchase motorcycles and other essentials.
As of press time, the Ministry has not issued any official statement regarding potential regulations, safety guidelines, or environmental protections for the affected area.
