As Rev. Philip Blamo Proposes “FIRE” Taskforce to Tackle Illegal Mining And Undocumented Immigration

PHOTO: Rev. Philip S. Blamo

By Sampson Weah

‎“We cannot talk about development while our borders remain weak and our resources are stolen,”

‎It is said that six months is a long time in politics but four years away from the 2029 presidential elections, Liberian politicians and other pressure group actors are beginning to make known their intentions to take part in the upcoming political race.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Citizens Action Committee of Liberia (CAC RL), Rev. Philip S. Blamo has announced his intention to contest the 2029 presidential election, unveiling a policy proposal aimed at strengthening immigration enforcement and protecting the country’s natural resources.‎

‎Speaking during a public engagement with supporters, Rev. Blamo disclosed that a future CAC RL-led administration would establish a special enforcement unit within the Bureau of Immigration to be known as FIRE (Forcible Immigration Removal Enforcement).‎

‎According to him, the proposed taskforce would be mandated to identify, investigate, and remove undocumented and illegal immigrants involved in unlawful mining activities and the illicit export of Liberia’s minerals and other natural resources.‎

‎He further explained that the unit would prioritize the removal of undocumented immigrants linked to criminal networks, including those engaged in smuggling, environmental destruction, and illegal trade.‎

‎“Liberia’s mineral wealth must benefit Liberians, not criminal syndicates operating under the cover of illegal immigration,” Rev. Blamo said. “For too long, our natural resources have been exploited without accountability. FIRE will be a mechanism to enforce our laws and defend our national interest.”‎

‎Rev. Blamo argued that illegal mining has contributed to environmental degradation, loss of government revenue, and insecurity in rural communities. He noted that foreign nationals without proper documentation have increasingly been associated with these activities, particularly in mineral-rich areas.‎

‎The CAC RL leader stressed that the taskforce would operate strictly within the framework of Liberia’s immigration and criminal laws, and would collaborate with the Ministry of Justice, security agencies, and environmental authorities.‎

‎“This is not about targeting people because of nationality,” he clarified. “It is about enforcing the law. Anyone who enters Liberia illegally, exploits our resources unlawfully, or commits crimes must be held accountable.”‎

‎In recent years, illegal mining and the unregulated export of gold and other minerals have become major national concerns, with authorities acknowledging the loss of millions of dollars in potential revenue annually.‎

‎Rev. Blamo said his broader political platform would include reforms in border security, mineral resource management, and employment opportunities for Liberians.‎

‎“We cannot talk about development while our borders remain weak and our resources are stolen,” he added. “A CAC RL government will take decisive action to secure Liberia’s future.”

‎The Citizens Action Committee of Liberia is expected to intensify its political activities in the coming months as it prepares to formally launch Rev. Blamo’s presidential campaign.